http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specificationPrayer Ministry Blog Archiveen-ustaj2.publishpath.comKurt Wilsonnohttp://taj2.publishpath.comThu, 14 Dec 2017 02:37:49 GMTPrayer Ministry Blog ArchivePrayer Ministry Blog ArchiveSat, 18 Oct 2014 01:06:06 GMTParsha V'Zot HaBerachah: Deuteronomy 33:1 – 34:12, Joshua 1:1-18http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-vzot-haberachah-deuteronomy-331-3412-joshua-11-18Fri, 17 Oct 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonThis week’s parsha is V'Zot HaBerachah: Deuteronomy 33:1 – 34:12, Joshua 1:1-18 V'Zot HaBerachah is Hebrew for "and this is the blessing" This week’s portion is the last reading before we start over in Genesis. There are things in my life that I would like to not have to start over and just be done with. Like my struggle with compulsive eating, or having to repeat the same conflicts over and over because I did not change my thinking and related behavior the first or fifth time throug...]]>This week’s parsha is V'Zot HaBerachah: Deuteronomy 33:1 – 34:12, Joshua 1:1-18 V'Zot HaBerachah is Hebrew for "and this is the blessing" This week’s portion is the last reading before we start over in Genesis. There are things in my life that I would like to not have to start over and just be done with. Like my struggle with compulsive eating, or having to repeat the same conflicts over and over because I did not change my thinking and related behavior the first or fifth time throug...This week’s parsha is V'Zot HaBerachah: Deuteronomy 33:1 – 34:12, Joshua 1:1-18

V'Zot HaBerachah is Hebrew for "and this is the blessing"

This week’s portion is the last reading before we start over in Genesis.

There are things in my life that I would like to not have to start over and just be done with. Like my struggle with compulsive eating, or having to repeat the same conflicts over and over because I did not change my thinking and related behavior the first or fifth time through.

I’d like to automatically remember G-d from the minute I get up until I go to bed instead of having to continually remember to pause and think of Him. I’d like to always remember to be helpful and available to everyone that I touch instead of being heads down to get through my task list.

G-d seems to have made me a slow learner and fast forgetter. It seems He made the Israelites the same way.

We see in Deut 34:12, “For no one has ever shown the mighty power or performed the awesome deeds that Moses did in the sight of all Israel.”

I believe that this is, in part, an allusion to Moses smashing the Tablets of the Covenant when he beheld the terrible sight of his friends and relatives worshiping the Golden Calf.

But that was the start of a new cycle of repentance and G-d’s forgiveness as a new set of tablets was fashioned.
Death and resurrection, sin and repentance, forgiveness and restoration, these are all cycles that play continuously in the Bible.

All of these cycles are rooted in the idea that we are never “done”. My recovery from food is never done. My spiritual growth is never done. My relationships, skills, wisdom (assuming I have any) never reach such a state of perfection that they are done and I can move on.

We are reminded that the Tablets of the Covenant were once destroyed and had to be remade. We are reminded again as we immediately start over in Genius.

There is never completion, only the reminder that we always start again. So it is with our spiritual journey.

We also see in Deut 34:7 “Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died, yet his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone.”

I believe this is more than a reference to his physical condition. I believe that his strength was not gone because his eyes were not weak. In other words, he never lost his commitment to the L-rd and the related ideals and vision.

He was as passionate now as at the beginning at the burning bush. He was committed to compassion, justice, and responsibility, even in the face of the trials and disappointments as a leader over the last 40 years.

To be a transformative leader requires passion and vision. You cannot give to others what you do not have.
If our efforts do not meet with success, we need to keep trying. This typically requires learning something new. And more often than not, success comes just when we are about to believe that we are a failure.

Moses never stopped learning, growing, teaching, leading. And the Bible invites us to do the same. This too is a cycle and a blessing.

May you be blessed this week as you learn something new amongst the routine of your life.

I hope that if you are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH (Ark of Prayer),

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-vzot-haberachah-deuteronomy-331-3412-joshua-11-18Parsha Sukkot: Leviticus 22:26-23:44; Numbers 29:12-16 and Zechariah 14:1-21http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-sukkot-leviticus-2226-2344-numbers-2912-16-and-zechariah-141-21Fri, 10 Oct 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonThis week’s parsha is Sukkot: Leviticus 22:26-23:44; Numbers 29:12-16 and Zechariah 14:1-21. The Hebrew word Sukkot is the plural of sukkah, "booth" or "tabernacle", which is a small, four sided structure tall enough for a human to stand in comfortably and roofed with plant material such as palm fronds. Throughout the Sukkot holiday, family meals are eaten inside the sukkah and many families sleep there as well, as G-d commanded. ]]>This week’s parsha is Sukkot: Leviticus 22:26-23:44; Numbers 29:12-16 and Zechariah 14:1-21. The Hebrew word Sukkot is the plural of sukkah, "booth" or "tabernacle", which is a small, four sided structure tall enough for a human to stand in comfortably and roofed with plant material such as palm fronds. Throughout the Sukkot holiday, family meals are eaten inside the sukkah and many families sleep there as well, as G-d commanded. This week’s parsha is Sukkot: Leviticus 22:26-23:44; Numbers 29:12-16 and Zechariah 14:1-21.

The Hebrew word Sukkot is the plural of sukkah, "booth" or "tabernacle", which is a small, four sided structure tall enough for a human to stand in comfortably and roofed with plant material such as palm fronds.

Throughout the Sukkot holiday, family meals are eaten inside the sukkah and many families sleep there as well, as G-d commanded. A sukkah is also a temporary dwelling in which agricultural workers would live during harvesting.

Sukkot / Festival of Shelters was ordained by G-d to be celebrated yearly as a holy assembly forever (Lev 23:41).

So what is it with this festival that does not explicitly celebrate one of G-d’s miracles, unlike all the other festivals?

G-d intended the sukkah to remind us, and each generation of Israelites, of the fragile dwellings in which they dwelt during their 40 years of desert travel after the Exodus from slavery in Egypt (Lev 23:43).

But G-d also said to “… celebrate [the festival] with joy before the L-rd, your G-d, for seven days” (Lev 22:40). Yeah right, bugs in my food, rocks in my back, and mosquitoes thinking they’ve arrived in the Promised Land.

Emotionally and physically, if I am not paying attention, I can easily maintain an illusion of safety, and security with everything under control.

But if I look around the world of today I see how vulnerable we all really are. Bombs in the underwear of strangers, tsunamis or burst dams that wipe out whole communities without warning, and governments or neighbors that decide without notice to murder or persecute the good people they do not agree with.

And then there is our personal day-to-day lives; children unexpectedly still born or with serious problems, sudden unemployment, undreamt of life threatening medical problems, and the unexpected sudden death of family and friends.

I think one of the points of Sukkot is to leave the illusory security of our homes and remember that without G-d we are nothing and have nothing.

I think it is also a reminder to not become sated and complacent and think “I did it all with my own hands” and discount the part that G-d played. That “I did it … “ is also an illusion and is certainly, for me, a worse and much more present problem than an airplane engine or neighbors ax landing on my head.

And let’s not forget the Jews. For over 3,500 years, with only comparatively brief periods, wherever they were and however seemingly secure, they knew that tomorrow everything could disappear in a wave of persecution or expulsion.

Today’s Israel is a living embodiment of what it is to exist in a state of insecurity and still rejoice.

I believe that Sukkot is a festival about the human condition as it is, not as we would like it to be. Sukkot is about the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a reminder about the breath of God that is within us; that helps broken hearts to heal and broken lives to be rebuilt.

This is certainly why I can be joyous in a sukkah: I have a G-d who rebuilds lives, hearts and relationships, who provides my daily bread and all that I have.

Faith is the courage to live with uncertainty. Faith is the ability to rejoice in the midst of instability and change, travelling toward an unknown destination. Faith is not fear. Faith is not hate. Faith is not violence. These are vital truths badly needed today.

As neighbors see us and have an opportunity to talk to us about Sukkot it is also a reminder to the world about G-d. And amazingly, Sukkot is the only festival that will be celebrated by the whole world at the End of Days (Zechariah 14: 16-19) It is a reminder that without G-d we have and are nothing.

May you be blessed this week, as you remember G-d amongst the routine of your life for opportunities to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use a mitzvot, your faith.

I hope that if you are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH (Ark of Prayer),

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-sukkot-leviticus-2226-2344-numbers-2912-16-and-zechariah-141-21Parsha Yom Kippur: Leviticus 16:1-34, Numbers 29:7-11 and Isaiah 57:14-58:14http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-yom-kippur-leviticus-161-34-numbers-297-11-and-isaiah-5714-5814Tue, 30 Sep 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Yom Kippur: Leviticus 16:1-34, Numbers 29:7-11 and Isaiah 57:14-58:14. The name "Yom Kippur" means "Day of Atonement," and that pretty much explains what the holiday and parsha is about. It is a day set aside to "afflict the soul," to atone for the sins of the past year. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Yom Kippur: Leviticus 16:1-34, Numbers 29:7-11 and Isaiah 57:14-58:14. The name "Yom Kippur" means "Day of Atonement," and that pretty much explains what the holiday and parsha is about. It is a day set aside to "afflict the soul," to atone for the sins of the past year. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

The name "Yom Kippur" means "Day of Atonement," and that pretty much explains what the holiday and parsha is about. It is a day set aside to "afflict the soul," to atone for the sins of the past year. Yom Kippur atones only for sins between man and G-d, not for sins against another person.

I believe that among the many things that G-d is trying to teach us all through Yom Kippur is about our attitude and values.

In Isaiah, G-d lists key principles that He expects us to model as we participate with Him during the Rosh Hashanah / Yom Kippur cycle and, frankly, every day.

Here is what I see as I read through Isaiah 57:14-58:14.

¥ Idols do not save me from trouble or help me repair that trouble. This includes my money, my power, my relationships or anything else I put before G-d.
¥ Only G-d restores me if I am willing to trust Him to do so.
¥ I must actively participate in removing the rubble and debris in my life so that my life can be re-built by G-d.
¥ I must be contrite and humble to live with the Holy One.
¥ He restores my spirit and courage if I am repentant.
¥ Punishment is for a season, and not forever.
¥ He sees the evil that I do but wants to lead and heal me anyway.
¥ Deep sorrow and regret for my sin will bring G-d’s comfort.
¥ G-d’s comfort will be so wonderful that I will praise Him.
¥ Those that reject Him will live a life full of turmoil and without peace.
¥ I am not to live an outwardly pious life while pursuing secret sin. G-d will not answer my prayers.

Ø The type of “fasting” that pleases G-d is service to others, done without any expectation of a reward or repayment.
Ø He wants me to serve others with a glad and open hand.
Ø I am to treat my workers with justice, and moderation; share my food, clothes, home and resources with those in need, including my relatives.
Ø If I have oppressed someone, put chains on them or imprisoned them, for example through anger, unforgiveness, disrespect, manipulative control, then I need to free them and repair the damage I have caused.

If I do selfless things for others because of my love for them and love for Him then G-d will rescue, deliver, and set me free from the filth that surrounds me. My god likeness will lead me forward into sanctification.

The generic meaning of sanctification is "the state of proper functioning." To sanctify someone or something is to set that person or thing apart for the use intended by its designer. A pen is "sanctified" when used to write. Eyeglasses are "sanctified" when used to improve sight. In the theological sense, things are sanctified when they are used for the purpose G-d intends. A human being is sanctified, therefore, when he or she lives according to G-d's design and purpose.

Through service, my light, given to me by G-d, will shine out into a very dark world and be noticed by those it touches.

The L-rd will continually guide me and renew me as endless light pours out of me and points others towards healing and nourishment and then duplicates itself in others.

This is our model for our relationships at and around TAJ.

May you be blessed this week, as you “listen” for G-d amongst the routine of your life for opportunities to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use a mitzvot, your light and love.

I hope that if you are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-yom-kippur-leviticus-161-34-numbers-297-11-and-isaiah-5714-5814Parsha Ha’azinu: Deuteronomy 32:1-52, 2 Samuel 22:1-51, Romans 10:1-13http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-haazinu-deuteronomy-321-52-2-samuel-221-51-romans-101-13Thu, 25 Sep 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ha’azinu: Deuteronomy 32:1-52, 2 Samuel 22:1-51, Romans 10:1-13. Ha’azinu is Hebrew for "listen" when directed to more than one person. I wish that when I call on the L-rd for help, my problems would go away by themselves and that I would not have to take any action or change anything about my behavior. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ha’azinu: Deuteronomy 32:1-52, 2 Samuel 22:1-51, Romans 10:1-13. Ha’azinu is Hebrew for "listen" when directed to more than one person. I wish that when I call on the L-rd for help, my problems would go away by themselves and that I would not have to take any action or change anything about my behavior. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Ha’azinu is Hebrew for "listen" when directed to more than one person.

I wish that when I call on the L-rd for help, my problems would go away by themselves and that I would not have to take any action or change anything about my behavior. But we all know that the Bible teaches that we are to be transformed.

For reasons I do not understand, hardship is a pathway to peace and transformation. Whacking me with G-d’s whoopee stick to instantly remove all my troubles without any struggle on my part does not seem to bring the same refinement, strength and hope that dealing successfully with struggle brings.

Young’s Literal Translation Bible reads Deuteronomy 32:9 as: “For Jehovah’s portion is His people; Jacob is the line of His inheritance.” A line is a rope. Since we Messianics have joined Jacob’s olive tree, we are roped to Him as well.

I love the analogy of a rope. This strong rope binds me to Him; my soul to His holiness.

The rope means that G-d is always with me, even when I fail; even when I lose my struggle with food and use it to medicate. Our Father sits compassionately with me while I am filthy and in pain and expectantly waits for my return to Him; still connected to me.

Just as a rope is comprised of many strands which give it strength, my relationship with G‑d is complex and made of many strands. In the parsha, Moses and King David listed teachability, faith, grateful praise, boldness, mercy, justice, love, integrity, humility, strength, wisdom, loyalty as things that true worshipers have in their relationship with G-d and those around them.

Strands also include my physical self and my physical actions; time with my congregation; time in His presence studying and praying; my internal thought life.

The G-d of the 613 mitzvots cares deeply about my relationship not only to Him but to you and all those around me. Neglecting compassionate, thoughtful, caring action, mitzvots, for others breaks strands in my rope and weakens my connection to G-d.

And I can tug on the rope. This can be a good or bad thing. When I tug in need, G-d comes closer to me and I can more fully experience His wisdom, healing and strength. But when I fall, like a climber on a cliff face, it has an impact on what others see of G-d’s person, like splattering mud on someone so you can not see the true color of their cloths. So what I do has implications for G-d and His kingdom.

To “listen” is to be roped and to be sensitive to the hum of its vibrations.

May you be blessed this week, as you “listen” for G-d amongst the routine of your life for opportunities to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use a mitzvot, your light and love.

I hope that if you are able, you will join the9:00 amShabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-haazinu-deuteronomy-321-52-2-samuel-221-51-romans-101-13Parsha Nitzavim-Vayelech: Deuteronomy 29:9-3:30, Isaiah 61:10-63:9, Romans 10:1-13http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-nitzavim-vayelech-deuteronomy-299-330-isaiah-6110-639-romans-101-13Thu, 18 Sep 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Nitzavim-Vayelech: Deuteronomy 29:9-3:30, Isaiah 61:10-63:9, Romans 10:1-13. Because G-d created “everything” and “It was good”, I believe we possess in our Divine soul an inherent, deep-seated love for G-d. I believe we therefore do not have to force ourselves against our nature to love G-d. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Nitzavim-Vayelech: Deuteronomy 29:9-3:30, Isaiah 61:10-63:9, Romans 10:1-13. Because G-d created “everything” and “It was good”, I believe we possess in our Divine soul an inherent, deep-seated love for G-d. I believe we therefore do not have to force ourselves against our nature to love G-d. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Because G-d created “everything” and “It was good”, I believe we possess in our Divine soul an inherent, deep-seated love for G-d. I believe we therefore do not have to force ourselves against our nature to love G-d. We already have a hidden ability to love Him even though we are evil and corrupt at a fundamental level; all we have to do is open ourselves up to this love, allowing it to manifest itself.

But feeling this love, where my feelings come and go, is one thing; making it permeate my life and the overflow pour out to others, is another.

When G-d sealed the covenant between Him and the Jewish people at Mount Sinai, by pronouncing the curses and threats given there in this weeks parsha, He made every Jew mutually responsible for the behavior of all other Jews with whom he or she had contact.

While I would never presume to know the mind of G-d, I do believe that this responsibility calls us to action in our relationships with those around us ... to not shrink away from engagement. Love for those around us, even strangers because they are the most sacred things this side of Heaven, makes this engagement possible.

Vayelech is Hebrew for "then he went out". Nitzavim means, ”You are standing” or “to stand firmly”.

To stand or to stand firmly means consistency to me. As a Messianic, I believe I must be consistent and dependable and firm.

But standing firmly does not mean standing still. Together with Nitzavim comes Vayeilech, which means “then he went out.” A Messianic can never remain standing in one place, immobile.

My goal then, for me and I hope for you, is to entrench this love in my/our daily lives so that it becomes a permanent fixture of my/our being. The indication of whether my hidden love has permeated my life is if this love has affected my behavior—my/our way of thinking, talking, and acting.

I find gladness and feel a closer presence with G-d when I have had an opportunity to do good to others to make their lives better and the lives I touch better. In my recovery program, this is called, acts of service. I need to be vigilant, available and willing to be of service to G-d and those around me. This needs to be a priority because G-d makes it a priority.

But imagine in today’s world being held accountable for the actions and beliefs of Obama, your neighbors, your boss, your subordinates, even your adult children and your parents, or just the people at TAJ. To me, since it is impossible to control the beliefs and feelings of others, this is a very scary prospect when I am held accountable to the G-d that created everything.

So while I believe I have an obligation to provide support as well as correction as part of my everyday life, I do so very imperfectly. Fortunately I also know that G-d is not only just, he is merciful and provides forgiveness to all that repent and seek reconciliation. This knowledge prevents me from hyperventilating about my accountability for others without eliminating my responsibility.

As Messianic believers we should feel strongly and confidently about being believers and stand proudly. We have every right, and even an obligation, to be bold and fearless. Nothing in the world should be able to budge us, today, tomorrow, next week, and next year.

May you be blessed this week, “when you go out” to the routine of your life, with the opportunity to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use your light and love.

I hope that if you are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-nitzavim-vayelech-deuteronomy-299-330-isaiah-6110-639-romans-101-13Parsha Ki Tavo: Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8, Isaiah 60:1-22, Acts 7:30-36http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-ki-tavo-deuteronomy-261-298-isaiah-601-22-acts-730-36Wed, 10 Sep 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ki Tavo: Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8, Isaiah 60:1-22, Acts 7:30-36. Hebrew for “when you enter”. We see in Deuteronomy 26 of this week’s parsha that the Israelites are responsible for the physical and spiritual well-being of those around them including foreigners and Levites (the Temple priests and their assistants). ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ki Tavo: Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8, Isaiah 60:1-22, Acts 7:30-36. Hebrew for “when you enter”. We see in Deuteronomy 26 of this week’s parsha that the Israelites are responsible for the physical and spiritual well-being of those around them including foreigners and Levites (the Temple priests and their assistants). To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

We see in Deuteronomy 26 of this week’s parsha that the Israelites are responsible for the physical and spiritual well-being of those around them including foreigners and Levites (the Temple priests and their assistants).

Because the Israelites were an agricultural society we see G-d talking about “first fruits” offered to Him in the context of plants and animals. Those gifts to G-d were then used to help the “Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows so that they will have enough to eat”. Then they were to declare, in the presence of the L-rd, that they actually distributed their first fruits to these people.

In our technological, knowledge worker, manufacturing society perhaps first fruits in our culture is our personal time and money. This might take the form of service and financial help to others in the name of the L-rd.

But I know most of us are so overbooked trying to make a living, which often requires a long commute, and provide quality activates for our kids (sports, music lessons, tutoring, college, etc.) while sustaining a marriage, that we do not have time for anything else.

I believe being over booked is a huge problem that is difficult to solve in our personal lives because we all want things beyond our basic daily bread. Being over booked, in my life, means that I do not have the bandwidth to notice other people in difficulty or pain, let alone to actually do something to help them.

Few of us are willing to reduce our standard of living or aspirations so that we can be of greater service to G-d by being of service to others around us in the name of the L-rd.

Some years ago, in an attempt to be more available to my family as well as be more G-d honoring with how I spent my time, I switched from a career that required that I be away from home many evenings and weekends to one that allowed working from home.

I confess when I switched careers I was not doing so with the intent to reduce our standard of living so I could have more time with and for G-d, but to try to “have it all”.

I include the time at Temple as part of my time tithe (about 8:45 am – 3:30 pm = approx. 7 hours). I include Temple because I spend time there conducting various ministry activities, talking to people about how they’re doing and generally looking for opportunities to be helpful or encouraging.

Then, on a typical Sunday, I spend 2 – 5 hours working on various volunteer projects or tasks my wife would like accomplished.

During the week, as part of my food recovery, I make “outreach calls” to offer encouragement and support to my peers and receive the same for me from them. I also attend recovery meetings which all have a service component even if I am only just talking to the people there.

Finally, notice that the Israelites are instructed to celebrate “all the good things the L-rd has given to you and your household” and to “include all the Levites and foreigners. This communal, as well as personal, celebration of G-d’s gifts to them is after they (includes Israelites made of families, orphans and widows) provide their offering at the Temple.

I think it is important to spend time together as a congregational family, whether celebrating our lives together or remembering the difficulties and what we learned from G-d’s answer to them. I'm beginning to make more of an effort to spend time with TAJ people in addition to Shabbat ... how about you?

May you be blessed this week, “when you enter” the routine of your life, with the opportunity to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use your light and love.

I hope that if you are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-ki-tavo-deuteronomy-261-298-isaiah-601-22-acts-730-36Parsha Ki Tetzei: Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19, Isaiah 54:1-10, 1 Corinthians 5:1-5http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-ki-tetzei-deuteronomy-2110-2519-isaiah-541-10-1-corinthians-51-5Wed, 03 Sep 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ki Tetzei: Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19, Isaiah 54:1-10, 1 Corinthians 5:1-5. Hebrew for “when you go”. This is a very difficult parsha for me because it is filled with some very difficult, and to me seemingly unjust, commandments from G-d. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ki Tetzei: Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19, Isaiah 54:1-10, 1 Corinthians 5:1-5. Hebrew for “when you go”. This is a very difficult parsha for me because it is filled with some very difficult, and to me seemingly unjust, commandments from G-d. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

This is a very difficult parsha for me because it is filled with some very difficult, and to me seemingly unjust, commandments from G-d. I was unnerved to have the gross evil of ISIS come to my mind as I read G-d’s word talking about categories of behavior which are reminiscent of the atrocities of ISIS.

But I suspect that part of my discomfort is that I do not understand the culture and cultural literacy of that time. In fact G-d’s commandments may have been a huge improvement over the current practices of that time by setting more compassionate boundaries. But I do know that, whatever my reactions are, I can always assume this is a problem with me and not G-d as G-d is always just and good.

So about boundaries.

Here is what I see in this parsha. G-d is concerned that I be fair and just and quickly fulfil my commitments. He is concerned that I make restitution for any wrong I have intentionally or unintentionally committed. He does not want me to take advantage of my position against anyone, but especially against weaker people. And as He moves around in my life to protect me and to defeat my enemies, He wants me to keep my physical and spiritual environment holy and “clean” because He is holy and so should the places through which He passes.

All of G-d’s concerns in this parsha relate to being trustworthy which is an absolute necessity for anyone who calls themselves a Yeshua follower. This is doubly true for someone like me who is in a recovery program which requires rigorous honesty to stay out of denial about his compulsions.

All enduring relationships, whether friendships, marriages, or employment and family relationships, are built on trust. When I make a promise I must keep it, even if the “cost” and inconvenience is much more than I originally expected.

Lying is a problem for many people. Many find it is easier to avoid accountability and confrontation than to tell the truth and deal with the consequences . But lying always breaks down relationships and will always eventually kill them.

But I have found, even though it is uncomfortable in the short term, that it is always best to tell the truth. When people know firsthand that I am dependable, they will typically cut me some slack and even offer forgiveness when I have not kept a commitment or harmed them in some way. But they would never do that if I was not trustworthy.

One way I use to keep drama out of my life and to enable me to keep my commitments is to count the cost (Proverbs 21:5, Ecclesiastes 5:5, Luke 14:28-31). Once I say “yes” then I’m all in. Until then I do not have any obligations and no reason to lie about anything.

I am by no means perfect. But when I keep my side of the street clean, at whatever the cost, I can look to G-d and to those around me and say, “I did the best I knew how to do” and have a clear conscious without the temptation to lie.

This parsha, once again, shows how much G-d desires us to have healthy relationships, proper authority structures, and to repent, offer restitution and seek reconciliation to those we have harmed.

May you be blessed this week, “when you go”, with the opportunity to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use your light and love.

I hope if you that are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-ki-tetzei-deuteronomy-2110-2519-isaiah-541-10-1-corinthians-51-5Parsha Shoftim: Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9, Isaiah 51:12-52:12, John 1:19-27http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-shoftim-deuteronomy-1618-219-isaiah-5112-5212-john-119-27Fri, 29 Aug 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Shoftim: Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9, Isaiah 51:12-52:12, John 1:19-27. Shoftim is Hebrew for “Judges”. Judges are part of the landscape of a system of boundaries and rules. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Shoftim: Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9, Isaiah 51:12-52:12, John 1:19-27. Shoftim is Hebrew for “Judges”. Judges are part of the landscape of a system of boundaries and rules. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

This week’s parsha is Shoftim: Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9, Isaiah 51:12-52:12, John 1:19-27. Shoftim is Hebrew for “Judges”.

Judges are part of the landscape of a system of boundaries and rules.

Submitting to authority is a concept that seems largely lost in our culture, but is consistent with biblical teaching. When we submit to these boundaries we bring honor to G-d. (Rom 13:2)

I believe Western civilization has moved from what was once called the Judeo-Christian ethic to a consumer-driven, choice-fixated culture without norms, ideals or shared values beyond the sovereign self, the freedom to be whatever one chooses, and to do whatever does not immediately harm others.

At the heart of contemporary culture is the atomized individual, detached from any commitments to the past, the future, tradition, a set of relationships, a substantive identity, and a sense of binding loyalties. That individual, the bearer of rights but not responsibilities, is free to enter any lifestyle but at home in none, and is the person whom Psalm 1 describes as “like chaff blown by the wind.” Society cannot survive such atomization

As a result, we also see huge turnover rates for spiritual leaders trying to lead their congregations because congregants, people like you and me, are unwilling to be led.

Part of G-d’s program for healthy living is to submit to the boundaries that G-d, his spiritual delegates such as our Rabbi, our government and our friends have set (Rom 13:1-5, 1 Peter 2:13-14).

In any relationship, in the absence of sin, what is left is preference. In order to maintain any community it is important to support the preferences of a humble leader, in our case, our Rabbi.

“Humble” as used in the Bible, does not mean diffident, meek, self-abasing, timid, bashful, demure or lacking in self-confidence. Moses was none of these. It means honoring others and regarding them not only as important but no less important than oneself. It does not mean holding oneself low; it means holding other people high.

G-d cares for all regardless of rank, and so must we. Greatness is humility.

Only by creating strong marriages can we argue the case for marriage. Only by sustaining strong communities can we speak with authority about community. Only by intense dedication to Torah study can we talk compellingly about education and the spiritual significance of the life of the mind. Only by being different can we offer an alternative to the prevailing cultural paradigms. Only by being true to what we are uniquely called on to be, can we give humanity what only we can give. To be a Messianic Jew is to live particular expressions of universal truths.

This is part of why TAJ is so important to me. We have many such people and couples that can claim strong marriages, are dedicated to Torah, and offer an alternative to the wider culture.

TAJ is a refuge of shared values, commitments and strength. And, like the refuge cities in this week’s parsha, it allows me to escape the pressing demands of life, where I can find support and insight as I rebuild my life through my recovery. At least in my life, I can not live a G-d filled life alone.

Our neighbors need to hear a Messianic Jewish voice, … voices from TAJ, speaking persuasively of the covenant of marriage, the sanctity of the family, the moral challenge of parenthood. They need to hear the TAJ view of community, and collective responsibility.

The parsha in Isaiah, says that G-d is in control of our lives, yet we do not fear Him as we should. Instead, we fear people – people who don’t really have any truly important authority over us. I sometimes succumb to my fear of disapproval of others. I seem to sometimes forget that I have said I have given all of my life to G-d and that I should strive to please G-d, who can bless me or punish me. I need to fear G-d more and people less.

How about you?

We are called to share what we have learned from G-d with others and to be G-d’s light in the world. Let’s be bold together.

May you be blessed this week with the opportunity to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use your light and love.

I hope if you that are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-shoftim-deuteronomy-1618-219-isaiah-5112-5212-john-119-27Parsha Re’eh: Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17, Isaiah 66:1-24, 1 John 4:1-6http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-reeh-deuteronomy-1126-1617-isaiah-661-24-1-john-41-6Wed, 20 Aug 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Re’eh: Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17, Isaiah 66:1-24, 1 John 4:1-6. Re’eh is Hebrew for "see" As Moses is about to recap all of G-d’s commands, Moses needs the People to see clearly and does not want them to become lost in the details. So he boils them down into two simple choices each with their own consequence. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Re’eh: Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17, Isaiah 66:1-24, 1 John 4:1-6. Re’eh is Hebrew for "see" As Moses is about to recap all of G-d’s commands, Moses needs the People to see clearly and does not want them to become lost in the details. So he boils them down into two simple choices each with their own consequence. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

As Moses is about to recap all of G-d’s commands, Moses needs the People to see clearly and does not want them to become lost in the details. So he boils them down into two simple choices each with their own consequence. He says to choose life or choose death.

To choose life is to follow the L-rd’s commandments and to follow the process of sanctification. But that needs total loyalty to G-d and His law. That is the only way we avoid decay, decline and defeat as individuals and as a congregation.

The point of the 613 commandments was sanctification of all aspects of life, from daily ritual to the very structure of society and its institutions. The aim was to shape a social world in which even seemingly secular occasions are turned into encounters with the Divine presence.

The regular practice of tzedakah (charity) and the forgiving of debts, I believe, was intended to provide a dignified society of people that cared for one another as mishpachah (family). This is also a strong value at Temple.

My experience has been that if I am only focused on my needs I drift into living a life that becomes less and less G-d honoring. But when I make regular choices to help others, however I can, I become more close to the L-rd. I do not know why this is true but only that it is true, at least in my life. This principle of commitment to selfless service is also seen in successful recovery programs.

I believe a foundational value in Judaism is that each person is to take ownership for the spiritual and physical well-being of those around them … a mutual responsibility.

To be mutually responsible requires that the community spend time together. So we see over and over in this week’s parsha, that G-d tells the Israelites to worship together in only the place He designates. Frequently, the worship includes eating together.

I have found in my life that communal worship is very important to my wellbeing and my ability to live life in a G-d honoring way. It also keeps my theology consistent with Biblical principles and is generally a place of encouragement when I am struggling as well as a place I can be helpful to others so I am not exclusively focused on only my needs.

Moses says the people cannot survive as a nation among other nations, worshipping what they worship and living as they live. I believe that this is just as true for TAJ and is part of the reason Rabbi holds so firmly to his vison of what TAJ should look like and how it should function.

Our lives are determined not by what happens to us but by how we respond to what happens to us – and how we respond depends on how we interpret events. Is this disaster the end of my world or is it life calling on me to exercise heroic strength so that I can survive and help others to survive? The same circumstances may be interpreted differently by two people, leading one to despair, the other to heroic endurance.

Strong families, communities and leaders have a clear sense of what their ideals are, and they are not blown off-course by the winds of change. As the “leaves” blow onto the TAJ lawn from other types of worship, theologies, priorities and relationship problems, they must be continually gathered or they will bury and kill the lawn. This is a very real threat which we see happening in other fellowships around us.

My experience and observation is that neither love nor joy come on a personal or social scale without codes of self-restraint and commitment to the common good … a commitment to G-d and his leadership.

I hope if you that are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and may you have your leaf blower on high as you groom your own lawn.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-reeh-deuteronomy-1126-1617-isaiah-661-24-1-john-41-6Parsha Ekev: Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25, Isaiah 49:14-51:3, Romans 8:31-39http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-ekev-deuteronomy-712-1125-isaiah-4914-513-romans-831-39Fri, 15 Aug 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ekev: Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25, Isaiah 49:14-51:3, Romans 8:31-39. Ekev is Hebrew for “if [you follow]”. It has taken forty years for Israel to trust the L-rd and to learn humility towards Him and that they live by the L-rd’s Word and not by their own efforts. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Ekev: Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25, Isaiah 49:14-51:3, Romans 8:31-39. Ekev is Hebrew for “if [you follow]”. It has taken forty years for Israel to trust the L-rd and to learn humility towards Him and that they live by the L-rd’s Word and not by their own efforts. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

It has taken forty years for Israel to trust the L-rd and to learn humility towards Him and that they live by the L-rd’s Word and not by their own efforts.

As the conquest of the Promised Land is about to begin, we see that G-d reaffirms his love for Israel even though they do not deserve it. He tells them, through Moses, that they should not fear the inhabitants due to the inhabitants being more numerous with fortified cities.

Notice also,
a) they must completely destroy the occupants, their gold and silver and their religious sites,
b) G-d will run ahead of them and use His power against all the inhabits whom G-d calls evil, and
c) they must be faithful to G-d and His commandments.

If they do these things then life will be wonderful. But if they do not, then they themselves will be destroyed.

This is exactly how my life has gone. If “I follow” G-d and stay within the boundaries He has set, things are great. But I am destroyed if I do not.

It is easy to miss that the conquest will be a little at a time and then only when G-d feels that Israel is ready.

Although I frequently complain to G-d about my problems, and especially what I feel is His tardiness, I often find, on the other side, that I was not ready to receive His solution to my problem.

I had lessons I had to learn and attitudes I had to change in order to be able to accept and effectively use the blessings and changes G-d wanted me to have. This is essentially the message G-d gave to Israel forty years prior and again as they are poised to receive His promise.

So here are the lessons I see for me from this passage:
1) I can always count on G-d’s love and His willingness to use His power on my behalf. When I forget and feel afraid in my circumstances, I can gain courage and perseverance by remembering what He has done in my life in the past.
2) G-d pursues me and continues to do right by me even though I do not deserve it.
3) I must completely destroy the hurts, habits and compulsions that block me from G-d. If I do not, they will always come roaring back and ultimately destroy me.
4) Part of the process to destroy my compulsions, is to refuse to covet and envy what others seem to have in any aspect of their life.
5) I can only be faithful to G-d if I am regularly with G-d. A cousin had a horse that became very ornery and bity, if it was not ridden a few times a week (It tried to bite me, step on my foot and buck me more than once). I am like that horse if I do not spend time with my Master.

May you be blessed this week with the opportunity to share your experience, strength and hope with someone that can use your light and love.

I hope if you that are able, you will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-ekev-deuteronomy-712-1125-isaiah-4914-513-romans-831-39Parsha Vaetchanan: Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11, Isaiah 40:1-26, Mark 12:28-34http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-vaetchanan-deuteronomy-323-711-isaiah-401-26-mark-1228-34Thu, 07 Aug 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Vaetchanan: Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11, Isaiah 40:1-26, Mark 12:28-34 Vaetchanan is Hebrew for “and I pleaded”. As a Messianic G-d follower, it is very uncomfortable to say that before I understood and followed the Biblical principles of recovery as they related to my compulsive eating, pleading directly with G-d to remove my compulsions was not sufficient. Although I was and am a very strong and knowledgeable Believ...]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Vaetchanan: Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11, Isaiah 40:1-26, Mark 12:28-34 Vaetchanan is Hebrew for “and I pleaded”. As a Messianic G-d follower, it is very uncomfortable to say that before I understood and followed the Biblical principles of recovery as they related to my compulsive eating, pleading directly with G-d to remove my compulsions was not sufficient. Although I was and am a very strong and knowledgeable Believ...To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Vaetchanan is Hebrew for “and I pleaded”. As a Messianic G-d follower, it is very uncomfortable to say that before I understood and followed the Biblical principles of recovery as they related to my compulsive eating, pleading directly with G-d to remove my compulsions was not sufficient. Although I was and am a very strong and knowledgeable Believer, what I had was not sufficient to correct my character defects through prayer and “giving it to the L-rd”.

In retrospect, I now realize what I wanted was to have my troubles removed without changing how I related to the world or to G-d. What G-d wanted was for me to change so I could relate to the world and to Him differently.

In the parsha, we see G-d, through Moses, telling the Israelites to do the decrees, regulations and commands that G-d has taught them and the wonderful rewards they will receive if they do so. He also tells them of the terrible consequences if they do not.

G-d provided the guidelines for acquiring a life that is full of contentment, fulfillment and peace resulting in a more intimate, alive connection with Him. But the price of this life and this connection is to daily act on these decrees, regulations and commands. They and we cannot have such a life if we are not willing to do the activity. At least that is how it works with me.

As an example, I cannot have this promised life if I am filled with resentment and jealously (do not covet). I cannot stop my resentment and jealously unless I seek after G-d (no other god but Me, do not worship an idol, observe Shabbat). I cannot understand how to seek after G-d unless someone shows me how and I am also filled with His Spirit so I can receive the Spirit’s guidance and power as well.

So for me, my journey towards a life of contentment, fulfillment and peace started with relationships with people who G-d had filled with Himself which resulted in contentment, fulfillment and peace in their life.

I believe my ability to become more whole is directly related to the quality of my spiritual fitness, the quality of my relationships and my willingness to take action to “do the right thing”.

As the Israelites needed their priests, prophets and one another, I need people in my life to help me because I sometimes fail to recognize my true enemies; I get into unhealthy relationships and activities that can destroy me. My friends notice, when I may not, when I start to head for the cliff.

To have a healthy relationship with G-d and others, I must clear out the obstacles in my life of pride, addiction, hypocrisy, greed (covetousness), fear and unrighteous anger, to name only a few. As I have dealt with these using G-d’s help and yours, I have become freer to become the person G-d wants me to be.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours. May this week be G-d filled and peaceful within the storm.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-vaetchanan-deuteronomy-323-711-isaiah-401-26-mark-1228-34Parsha Devarim: Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22, Isaiah 1:1-27http://taj2.publishpath.com/parsha-devarim-deuteronomy-11-322-isaiah-11-27Wed, 30 Jul 2014 05:00:00 GMTKurt WilsonTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Devarim: Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22, Isaiah 1:1-27 Unfortunately I seem to be a slow learner and fast forgetter. I purchased a mezuzah when we were in Israel recently and put it up on the door between my garage and my home. I wanted the sight of it to remind me to whom I belong and how I should conduct myself throughout my day. ]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within, This week’s parsha is Devarim: Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22, Isaiah 1:1-27 Unfortunately I seem to be a slow learner and fast forgetter. I purchased a mezuzah when we were in Israel recently and put it up on the door between my garage and my home. I wanted the sight of it to remind me to whom I belong and how I should conduct myself throughout my day. To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

This week’s parsha is Devarim: Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22, Isaiah 1:1-27

Unfortunately I seem to be a slow learner and fast forgetter. I purchased a mezuzah when we were in Israel recently and put it up on the door between my garage and my home. I wanted the sight of it to remind me to whom I belong and how I should conduct myself throughout my day. But it seems to have quickly faded into the paint and I don’t always see it every day.

Devarim is Hebrew for “words”. In this parsha Moses reminds Israel where they have been and where they are headed and how this is all to be accomplished. This is not the first time they have been reminded by Moses or G-d. They seem to be slow learners and fast forgetters like me … and I suspect like you.

Deuteronomy is a book of new hope. It’s about making a fresh start as the Israelites rebuilt their lives, communities and, ultimately, their nation. Moses took time, as they were starting off, to remind them about the principles to do this rebuilding.

In every life there are pivotal moments; moments when we choose to let go and move on or to cling tightly, often, to the past. How and when we respond to these moments shapes everything that comes after. You can see the consequences of the choice the Israelites made 40 years prior. My life is certainly full of these key decisions.

“Don’t be afraid”, is the most common command in Scripture. What G-d wanted 40 years prior, and still wanted as the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land, was for them to trust Him for all things. Although never perfect, as I have learned to more completely turn my focus away from my circumstances toward G-d and His power and love, my helplessness and fear evaporate.

G-d did not reject His People when he pushed them back into the wilderness for 40 years. He was guiding them in such a way that they had an opportunity to build trust in Him and develop discipline. When I travel through difficult times, I know He never leaves me and, further, that I can trust that I will emerge from the end a wiser, more capable, G-d honoring man IF I follow His leading and principles.

Timing is often an essential part of G-d’s plan. Sometimes, in order for me to be teachable, I need to hit bottom. It was necessary for the Israelites to experience what seemed to them like total defeat in the wilderness before they could learn to trust G-d’s plan and take action His way.

And we see this difficult and unfortunate truth as well; that, in spite of everything, some people remained unrepentant, unteachable, and unwilling to let go, and died in the wilderness, removed from the community so the community could move forward. Sometimes ending toxic relationships with others is the only solution to a healthy, G-d filled life, but should never be exercised as a first option. G-d is quite long suffering.

As I’ve mentioned in other parsha blogs, I struggle with compulsive eating, a progressive disease that, if ignored, will ultimately kill me, my relationships with others, and with G-d.

I have an allergy of the body and an obsession of the mind so principally I have a mental problem. So I must be in fit spiritual condition in order to make progress with my recovery.

To support my ability to stay in a fit spiritual condition, and thus to remain teachable and not forgetful, I use various tools.

Weekly, in addition to studying Scripture and praying for G-d’s guidance and strength, I attend Overeaters Anonymous meetings, provide help to others like me, study recovery literature and try to be G-d honoring through how I deal with my food and the people I touch.

Without these activities, I quickly become forgetful, and unteachable, cutting myself off from G-d and others. Doing these activities helps me remember the risks and rewards if I continue to trust G-d to provide what I need to stay abstinent and engaged with Him and the world.

I believe that G-d created us all to be of service to Him and to each other and we can not do that if we have our focus on other things such as, in my case, food.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Masei is Hebrew for “Journeys”. I believe that journeys are both physical and spiritual. We see both of those components in this week’s parsha

In my food related recovery program, I make a gratitude list from time to time. I also make a list of the things that G-d has done for me in my life. These lists include the people, places and things as well as the lessons that I have learned that G-d has put into my life and for which I am grateful.

Taking the time to make these lists helps me to be patient, strong, focused, humble and kind under duress.

Psalms 77 is a favorite of mine because it shows Asaph crying out to the L-rd in despair and then being comforted by remembering all the L-rd’s deeds and past acts of faithfulness. This Psalm is a reminder to me as well that the L-rd is faithful to me also.

We see a similar reminder in Numbers where Moses, at the L-rd’s direction, has kept a written record of their wilderness journey. I believe that Moses reviews this with them, on the eve of their entry into the Promised Land, because it was important that he reaffirm that G-d has not only been with them but protected and provided for them since they left Egypt.

Remembering past acts of faithfulness is important to growing trust in a relationship. Without trust, I can not move forward which always requires at least some risk taking.

You can image that you would not dangle over a cliff unless you trusted the rope to hold you. So it is the same way with me as I can not put my trust in any relationship, including one in the L-rd, unless I can count on its inherent faithfulness and good will.

Trust based on previous faithfulness, allows me to give the benefit of the doubt, or even decide not to be offended and offer forgiveness, when I am in a position where I am in conflict with another. Trust always opens up quicker and more complete conflict resolution.

This type of trust in G-d, also means that if G-d answers my prayers with “No” or “Not now”, and leaves me in pain, I can assume that He is good, that, even though I do not understand it, the results I received are as G-d intended and are the best for me and those around me.

As a result, I am more often able to have peace under duress and I am more connected to G-d and His guidance.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Masei: Numbers 33:1-36:13, Jeremiah 2:4-28;4:1-2, James 4:1-12Masei is Hebrew for “Journeys”. I believe that journeys are both physical and spiritual. We see both of those components in this week’s parshaIn my food related recovery program, I make a gratitude list from time to time. I also make a list of the things that G-d has done for me in my life. These lists include the people, places and things as well as the lessons that I have learned that G-d has put into my life and for which I am grateful.Taking the time to make these lists helps me to be patient, strong, focused, humble and kind under duress.Psalms 77 is a favorite of mine because it shows Asaph crying out to the L-rd in despair and then being comforted by remembering all the L-rd’s deeds and past acts of faithfulness. This Psalm is a reminder to me as well that the L-rd is faithful to me also.We see a similar reminder in Numbers where Moses, at the L-rd’s direction, has kept a written record of their wilderness journey. I believe that Moses reviews this with them, on the eve of their entry into the Promised Land, because it was important that he reaffirm that G-d has not only been with them but protected and provided for them since they left Egypt.Remembering past acts of faithfulness is important to growing trust in a relationship. Without trust, I can not move forward which always requires at least some risk taking.You can image that you would not dangle over a cliff unless you trusted the rope to hold you. So it is the same way with me as I can not put my trust in any relationship, including one in the L-rd, unless I can count on its inherent faithfulness and good will.Trust based on previous faithfulness, allows me to give the benefit of the doubt, or even decide not to be offended and offer forgiveness, when I am in a position where I am in conflict with another. Trust always opens up quicker and more complete conflict resolution.This type of trust in G-d, also means that if G-d answers my prayers with “No” or “Not now”, and leaves me in pain, I can assume that He is good, that, even though I do not understand it, the results I received are as G-d intended and are the best for me and those around me.As a result, I am more often able to have peace under duress and I am more connected to G-d and His guidance.I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.Blessings to you and yours.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Masei is Hebrew for “Journeys”. I believe that journeys are both physical and spiritual. We see both of those components in this week’s parsha

In my food related recovery program, I make a gratitude list from time to time. I also make a list of the things that G-d has done for me in my life. These lists include the people, places and things as well as the lessons that I have learned that G-d has put into my life and for which I am grateful.

Taking the time to make these lists helps me to be patient, strong, focused, humble and kind under duress.

Psalms 77 is a favorite of mine because it shows Asaph crying out to the L-rd in despair and then being comforted by remembering all the L-rd’s deeds and past acts of faithfulness. This Psalm is a reminder to me as well that the L-rd is faithful to me also.

We see a similar reminder in Numbers where Moses, at the L-rd’s direction, has kept a written record of their wilderness journey. I believe that Moses reviews this with them, on the eve of their entry into the Promised Land, because it was important that he reaffirm that G-d has not only been with them but protected and provided for them since they left Egypt.

Remembering past acts of faithfulness is important to growing trust in a relationship. Without trust, I can not move forward which always requires at least some risk taking.

You can image that you would not dangle over a cliff unless you trusted the rope to hold you. So it is the same way with me as I can not put my trust in any relationship, including one in the L-rd, unless I can count on its inherent faithfulness and good will.

Trust based on previous faithfulness, allows me to give the benefit of the doubt, or even decide not to be offended and offer forgiveness, when I am in a position where I am in conflict with another. Trust always opens up quicker and more complete conflict resolution.

This type of trust in G-d, also means that if G-d answers my prayers with “No” or “Not now”, and leaves me in pain, I can assume that He is good, that, even though I do not understand it, the results I received are as G-d intended and are the best for me and those around me.

As a result, I am more often able to have peace under duress and I am more connected to G-d and His guidance.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

When I was in my 20’s, before I had a living relationship with G-d, when I met someone for the first time, especially in a business environment, and within 10 minutes of meeting them they told me that they were a Christian, I knew I was going to have a rough time in my relationship with them.

I knew they would not be dependable, that they would be unlikely to go out of their way to be helpful and generally be difficult to deal with. Looking back on those experiences, I find it amazing that I later sought a relationship with the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Matot, opens with an injunction about the sanctity of our words:

"If a man makes a vow to the LORD, or takes an oath to bind himself with a binding obligation, he shall not violate his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. (Numbers 30:2–3)

The context is a vow to the L-rd but I think it applies to our relationships with one another. A vow can be understood as a commitment or promise. Violate can be understood as desecrate.

So I think it can be read as, “And Moses spoke to the heads of the tribes . . . if a man makes a promise . . . he shall not desecrate his word; whatever issues from his mouth he shall do . . .”

I think my reading communicates more closely how strongly G-d dislikes broken commitments we make to one another and to Him.

My dad taught me, and I have taught my kids, that my word is my bond; that promises need to be kept.

I have since come to believe that, like the verses, the promises I utter are sacred and inviolate. If I disregard what I say, I have profaned and desecrated my words.

Now do not get me wrong. Sometimes I let people down or life intervenes in unexpected ways … just ask my wife or kids. But keeping commitments is a big deal and so should not be made lightly.

Jokingly, my typical position is that if I’m dead or in the hospital then I MIGHT have an excuse for not keeping my commitments. So, as a result, I always consider the cost before committing to anything.

It is not for nothing that our Master says of us, “You shall be known by your love.” Keeping commitments, another word for dependability and safety, is a key part of love.

Even if I’m worried about the immediate costs, financial, time or relationship, my experience has taught me that my reputation, which I have acquired by attempting to speak truthfully and by keeping my word, has more than compensated any short-term losses.

A couple of weeks ago I got a call from a business acquaintance that I have known a long time but have not done much work with. He said he called me first about a significant business opportunity principally because of my reputation as a dependable, trustworthy, get it done kind of guy.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Matot: Numbers 30:2 – 32:42, Jeremiah 1:1-2:3, Mathew 5:33-37When I was in my 20’s, before I had a living relationship with G-d, when I met someone for the first time, especially in a business environment, and within 10 minutes of meeting them they told me that they were a Christian, I knew I was going to have a rough time in my relationship with them.I knew they would not be dependable, that they would be unlikely to go out of their way to be helpful and generally be difficult to deal with. Looking back on those experiences, I find it amazing that I later sought a relationship with the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.Matot, opens with an injunction about the sanctity of our words:"If a man makes a vow to the LORD, or takes an oath to bind himself with a binding obligation, he shall not violate his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. (Numbers 30:2–3)
The context is a vow to the L-rd but I think it applies to our relationships with one another. A vow can be understood as a commitment or promise. Violate can be understood as desecrate.So I think it can be read as, “And Moses spoke to the heads of the tribes . . . if a man makes a promise . . . he shall not desecrate his word; whatever issues from his mouth he shall do . . .”I think my reading communicates more closely how strongly G-d dislikes broken commitments we make to one another and to Him.My dad taught me, and I have taught my kids, that my word is my bond; that promises need to be kept.I have since come to believe that, like the verses, the promises I utter are sacred and inviolate. If I disregard what I say, I have profaned and desecrated my words.Now do not get me wrong. Sometimes I let people down or life intervenes in unexpected ways … just ask my wife or kids. But keeping commitments is a big deal and so should not be made lightly.Jokingly, my typical position is that if I’m dead or in the hospital then I MIGHT have an excuse for not keeping my commitments. So, as a result, I always consider the cost before committing to anything.It is not for nothing that our Master says of us, “You shall be known by your love.” Keeping commitments, another word for dependability and safety, is a key part of love.Even if I’m worried about the immediate costs, financial, time or relationship, my experience has taught me that my reputation, which I have acquired by attempting to speak truthfully and by keeping my word, has more than compensated any short-term losses.A couple of weeks ago I got a call from a business acquaintance that I have known a long time but have not done much work with. He said he called me first about a significant business opportunity principally because of my reputation as a dependable, trustworthy, get it done kind of guy.I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.Blessings to you and yours.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILLAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

When I was in my 20’s, before I had a living relationship with G-d, when I met someone for the first time, especially in a business environment, and within 10 minutes of meeting them they told me that they were a Christian, I knew I was going to have a rough time in my relationship with them.

I knew they would not be dependable, that they would be unlikely to go out of their way to be helpful and generally be difficult to deal with. Looking back on those experiences, I find it amazing that I later sought a relationship with the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Matot, opens with an injunction about the sanctity of our words:

"If a man makes a vow to the LORD, or takes an oath to bind himself with a binding obligation, he shall not violate his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. (Numbers 30:2–3)

The context is a vow to the L-rd but I think it applies to our relationships with one another. A vow can be understood as a commitment or promise. Violate can be understood as desecrate.

So I think it can be read as, “And Moses spoke to the heads of the tribes . . . if a man makes a promise . . . he shall not desecrate his word; whatever issues from his mouth he shall do . . .”

I think my reading communicates more closely how strongly G-d dislikes broken commitments we make to one another and to Him.

My dad taught me, and I have taught my kids, that my word is my bond; that promises need to be kept.

I have since come to believe that, like the verses, the promises I utter are sacred and inviolate. If I disregard what I say, I have profaned and desecrated my words.

Now do not get me wrong. Sometimes I let people down or life intervenes in unexpected ways … just ask my wife or kids. But keeping commitments is a big deal and so should not be made lightly.

Jokingly, my typical position is that if I’m dead or in the hospital then I MIGHT have an excuse for not keeping my commitments. So, as a result, I always consider the cost before committing to anything.

It is not for nothing that our Master says of us, “You shall be known by your love.” Keeping commitments, another word for dependability and safety, is a key part of love.

Even if I’m worried about the immediate costs, financial, time or relationship, my experience has taught me that my reputation, which I have acquired by attempting to speak truthfully and by keeping my word, has more than compensated any short-term losses.

A couple of weeks ago I got a call from a business acquaintance that I have known a long time but have not done much work with. He said he called me first about a significant business opportunity principally because of my reputation as a dependable, trustworthy, get it done kind of guy.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefillah. We pray for the Temple, for Israel and our government.

In Numbers 27 we see that the torch of Israel’s leadership is passed from Moses to Joshua. Although Moses was able to see the Promised Land of Canaan, he was not allowed to enter it because G-d said, “… you did not trust in Me, to show My holiness before the eyes of the Israelites … “.

Moses spent 40 years leading a group of whiny, ungrateful, slanderous, deceitful people that routinely threatened his life. But rather than being self-centered and overcome with disappointment, Moses’ greatest concern was still for his people. What an amazing example.

His words show his character, “Let the L-rd, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the Lord may not be as sheep that have no shepherd.”

Moses evidently was content with G-d’s plan for him as nowhere do we hear pleading or any anger from Moses over G-d’s decision. Like, Moses we all must learn to be content with G-d’s plan for us, even when it brings us disappointments. G-d always desires what is best for us.

A little later G-d reviews some of the offerings with the Israelites. Just as the offerings were to be brought regularly, so our fellowship with G-d should be regular and voluntary. It should be a continuous, moment-by-moment experience. G-d desires more than ritual worship; he invites us to have a personal, day-by-day relationship with him.

Only through continuous fellowship with G-d could G-d’s people expect victory as they entered the Promised Land. This is probably the reason for repeating the instructions for the burnt offering here – a reaffirmation of its significance for the new generation. By bringing the offering, a person was committing his or her life to G-d in a fresh way. This is an essential step for our spiritual growth. Only when we place our life in G-d’s hands will He be able to change us through His power.

Of course it is easier to say than to do. Although one of my favorite hymns is “I Surrender All”, I should probably sing it as “I surrender some”.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefilah. We pray for Temple that the will of G-d will be done, that He keeps us on his path, and that we surrender all to Him as individuals and as a congregation.

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVAH TEFILLAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Pinchas: Numbers 25:10-30:1, 1 Kings 18:46-19:21In Numbers 27 we see that the torch of Israel’s leadership is passed from Moses to Joshua. Although Moses was able to see the Promised Land of Canaan, he was not allowed to enter it because G-d said, “… you did not trust in Me, to show My holiness before the eyes of the Israelites … “.Moses spent 40 years leading a group of whiny, ungrateful, slanderous, deceitful people that routinely threatened his life. But rather than being self-centered and overcome with disappointment, Moses’ greatest concern was still for his people. What an amazing example. His words show his character, “Let the L-rd, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the Lord may not be as sheep that have no shepherd.”Moses evidently was content with G-d’s plan for him as nowhere do we hear pleading or any anger from Moses over G-d’s decision. Like, Moses we all must learn to be content with G-d’s plan for us, even when it brings us disappointments. G-d always desires what is best for us.A little later G-d reviews some of the offerings with the Israelites. Just as the offerings were to be brought regularly, so our fellowship with G-d should be regular and voluntary. It should be a continuous, moment-by-moment experience. G-d desires more than ritual worship; he invites us to have a personal, day-by-day relationship with him.Only through continuous fellowship with G-d could G-d’s people expect victory as they entered the Promised Land. This is probably the reason for repeating the instructions for the burnt offering here – a reaffirmation of its significance for the new generation. By bringing the offering, a person was committing his or her life to G-d in a fresh way. This is an essential step for our spiritual growth. Only when we place our life in G-d’s hands will He be able to change us through His power.Of course it is easier to say than to do. Although one of my favorite hymns is “I Surrender All”, I should probably sing it as “I surrender some”.I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefilah. We pray for Temple that the will of G-d will be done, that He keeps us on his path, and that we surrender all to Him as individuals and as a congregation.Blessings to you and yours.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVAH TEFILLAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

In Numbers 27 we see that the torch of Israel’s leadership is passed from Moses to Joshua. Although Moses was able to see the Promised Land of Canaan, he was not allowed to enter it because G-d said, “… you did not trust in Me, to show My holiness before the eyes of the Israelites … “.

Moses spent 40 years leading a group of whiny, ungrateful, slanderous, deceitful people that routinely threatened his life. But rather than being self-centered and overcome with disappointment, Moses’ greatest concern was still for his people. What an amazing example.

His words show his character, “Let the L-rd, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the Lord may not be as sheep that have no shepherd.”

Moses evidently was content with G-d’s plan for him as nowhere do we hear pleading or any anger from Moses over G-d’s decision. Like, Moses we all must learn to be content with G-d’s plan for us, even when it brings us disappointments. G-d always desires what is best for us.

A little later G-d reviews some of the offerings with the Israelites. Just as the offerings were to be brought regularly, so our fellowship with G-d should be regular and voluntary. It should be a continuous, moment-by-moment experience. G-d desires more than ritual worship; he invites us to have a personal, day-by-day relationship with him.

Only through continuous fellowship with G-d could G-d’s people expect victory as they entered the Promised Land. This is probably the reason for repeating the instructions for the burnt offering here – a reaffirmation of its significance for the new generation. By bringing the offering, a person was committing his or her life to G-d in a fresh way. This is an essential step for our spiritual growth. Only when we place our life in G-d’s hands will He be able to change us through His power.

Of course it is easier to say than to do. Although one of my favorite hymns is “I Surrender All”, I should probably sing it as “I surrender some”.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefilah. We pray for Temple that the will of G-d will be done, that He keeps us on his path, and that we surrender all to Him as individuals and as a congregation.

We see in Numbers that Balak, King of Moab, feels his life is about to become unmanageable and perhaps even end due to the arrival of the Israelites. So he sends for Balaam, a prophet that sells his services for money, to curse Israel in the name of the L-rd so Balak can defeat Israel.

But Balaam tells King Balak that he will not be able to help him. But the King thinks that the L-rd would be more likely to grant his request in three different geographic locations. Each time G-d, through Baalam, refuses to curse Israel. In the recovery world this is called “taking a geographic cure”.

People think that their problems are caused by the people, places and things at a given location and that if they change locations, things will get better. At least in my life, that has never been the case. My problems are caused by me due to how I choose to interact with people, places and things. So although I can change physical locations, I have not changed me, hence my problems continue but with new participants.

And we see that with the King. Instead of repenting, reaching out to the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and asking for mercy, he hangs onto his fear and arrogance and his desire to destroy Israel.

But we know that two doves came from this area; Ruth, loyal to Naomi, faithful to G-d and in the lineage of our Master; Naamah, wife of King Solomon, mother of his heir Rehoboam, and the only one of Solomon's wives to be mentioned as having borne a child.

Although an unrepentant Balak eventually dies when Joshua begins his conquest of Canaan, it is not unreasonable to believe that he might have lived, and certainly had a less contentious relationship with Israel, if he had knelt before G-d and offered allegiance.

I find that same principle operative in my life. As I am willing to depend on G-d to lead me through my troubles, I can count on Him to provide me the wisdom, courage and strength to survive the toughest situations. I’ve found that my level of fear equals my distance from G-d and is an indicator of my spiritual fitness at that moment.

So my part is to do the actions and tasks G-d sets before me and to trust Him for the outcome. Even if the outcome is not as I had hoped, I have the solid confidence that G-d thought it was important for me and those around me, to have that outcome. I can not explain why, but knowing that the outcome is as G-d intended, whatever it is, provides peace to me when I know I have done my part.

So if I have relational problems at Temple, in my marriage, with neighbors, or at work, the solution is not to leave those relationships but to turn to G-d and submit my ego, fears and hopes to Him.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefilah.

Blessings to you and yours as you celebrate July 4th.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Balak: Numbers 22:2-25:9, Micah 5:6-6:8We see in Numbers that Balak, King of Moab, feels his life is about to become unmanageable and perhaps even end due to the arrival of the Israelites. So he sends for Balaam, a prophet that sells his services for money, to curse Israel in the name of the L-rd so Balak can defeat Israel.But Balaam tells King Balak that he will not be able to help him. But the King thinks that the L-rd would be more likely to grant his request in three different geographic locations. Each time G-d, through Baalam, refuses to curse Israel. In the recovery world this is called “taking a geographic cure”.People think that their problems are caused by the people, places and things at a given location and that if they change locations, things will get better. At least in my life, that has never been the case. My problems are caused by me due to how I choose to interact with people, places and things. So although I can change physical locations, I have not changed me, hence my problems continue but with new participants.And we see that with the King. Instead of repenting, reaching out to the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and asking for mercy, he hangs onto his fear and arrogance and his desire to destroy Israel.But we know that two doves came from this area; Ruth, loyal to Naomi, faithful to G-d and in the lineage of our Master; Naamah, wife of King Solomon, mother of his heir Rehoboam, and the only one of Solomon's wives to be mentioned as having borne a child.Although an unrepentant Balak eventually dies when Joshua begins his conquest of Canaan, it is not unreasonable to believe that he might have lived, and certainly had a less contentious relationship with Israel, if he had knelt before G-d and offered allegiance.I find that same principle operative in my life. As I am willing to depend on G-d to lead me through my troubles, I can count on Him to provide me the wisdom, courage and strength to survive the toughest situations. I’ve found that my level of fear equals my distance from G-d and is an indicator of my spiritual fitness at that moment.So my part is to do the actions and tasks G-d sets before me and to trust Him for the outcome. Even if the outcome is not as I had hoped, I have the solid confidence that G-d thought it was important for me and those around me, to have that outcome. I can not explain why, but knowing that the outcome is as G-d intended, whatever it is, provides peace to me when I know I have done my part.So if I have relational problems at Temple, in my marriage, with neighbors, or at work, the solution is not to leave those relationships but to turn to G-d and submit my ego, fears and hopes to Him.I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefilah.Blessings to you and yours as you celebrate July 4th.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

This week’s parsha is Balak: Numbers 22:2-25:9, Micah 5:6-6:8

We see in Numbers that Balak, King of Moab, feels his life is about to become unmanageable and perhaps even end due to the arrival of the Israelites. So he sends for Balaam, a prophet that sells his services for money, to curse Israel in the name of the L-rd so Balak can defeat Israel.

But Balaam tells King Balak that he will not be able to help him. But the King thinks that the L-rd would be more likely to grant his request in three different geographic locations. Each time G-d, through Baalam, refuses to curse Israel. In the recovery world this is called “taking a geographic cure”.

People think that their problems are caused by the people, places and things at a given location and that if they change locations, things will get better. At least in my life, that has never been the case. My problems are caused by me due to how I choose to interact with people, places and things. So although I can change physical locations, I have not changed me, hence my problems continue but with new participants.

And we see that with the King. Instead of repenting, reaching out to the G-d of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and asking for mercy, he hangs onto his fear and arrogance and his desire to destroy Israel.

But we know that two doves came from this area; Ruth, loyal to Naomi, faithful to G-d and in the lineage of our Master; Naamah, wife of King Solomon, mother of his heir Rehoboam, and the only one of Solomon's wives to be mentioned as having borne a child.

Although an unrepentant Balak eventually dies when Joshua begins his conquest of Canaan, it is not unreasonable to believe that he might have lived, and certainly had a less contentious relationship with Israel, if he had knelt before G-d and offered allegiance.

I find that same principle operative in my life. As I am willing to depend on G-d to lead me through my troubles, I can count on Him to provide me the wisdom, courage and strength to survive the toughest situations. I’ve found that my level of fear equals my distance from G-d and is an indicator of my spiritual fitness at that moment.

So my part is to do the actions and tasks G-d sets before me and to trust Him for the outcome. Even if the outcome is not as I had hoped, I have the solid confidence that G-d thought it was important for me and those around me, to have that outcome. I can not explain why, but knowing that the outcome is as G-d intended, whatever it is, provides peace to me when I know I have done my part.

So if I have relational problems at Temple, in my marriage, with neighbors, or at work, the solution is not to leave those relationships but to turn to G-d and submit my ego, fears and hopes to Him.

I hope any of you that are able, will join the 9:00 am Shabbat Teva Tefilah.

The context of Numbers 19 is touching, or in close proximity to, a human body that is dead.

When I read G-d’s instructions in Numbers 19, for the “water of purification”, I was struck by the need to involve others in ones community who are ceremonially clean in order to become ceremonially clean oneself. I was also struck that those that help in the purification ritual themselves become ceremonially unclean until sunset, thus taking on a portion of the impurity and the effort to follow G-d‘s instructions.

Typically the priests are the only ones involved beyond the person who is seeking absolution.

So G-d provided instructions to Israel about what to do when their lives were touched by death and it included help from their neighbors. Imagine your trouble if your neighbors were unwilling to help. While we do not do these rituals anymore, engaging with ones “neighbors” as part of the grieving process is part of our rituals surrounding death.

The loss of one of our children impacted many people beyond my wife and me. Although we are very private people, having a wider community around us was helpful and ultimately resulted in a closer and stronger marital relationship.

After a water shortage, the Israelites started to complain again. The focus on this incident, however, was on the failure of Moses and Aaron to follow G-d’s instructions and instead to use their own method to produce water.

By disobeying G-d’s specific instructions, Moses and Aaron exhibited attitudes of personal rebellion against G-d. Likely it was their frustration and anger at the people's continual whining and lack of trust and support that caused the impulsive action.

Commitment to G-d’s program cannot be a partway proposition. Despite Moses’ great success in the past, this failure kept him and Aaron out of the Promised Land. This illustrates the importance of obedience to G-d’s Word, especially if we are in a leadership position.

Although his failure undoubtedly brought him a great deal of personal pain and disappointment, notice that in spite of the severe judgment by G-d, Moses shows no bitter feelings toward G-d; neither did he neglect his responsibilities. His recovery from personal failure and his continued faithful service to G-d are evidence of Moses’ great faith and dependence upon G-d.

Note also that G-d allowed him to resume his leadership of the Israelites and his role as their mediator. My mistakes do not disqualify me from future success; they provide opportunities for learning, growth, and dependence upon G-d.

I’m back from Israel and we had a wonderful trip. I’m still dealing with jet lag but looking forward to seeing you all on Shabbat and perhaps you'll join me at the 9:00 Teva Tefilah

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Chukat: Numbers 19:1-22:1, Isaiah 66:1-24The context of Numbers 19 is touching, or in close proximity to, a human body that is dead.When I read G-d’s instructions in Numbers 19, for the “water of purification”, I was struck by the need to involve others in ones community who are ceremonially clean in order to become ceremonially clean oneself. I was also struck that those that help in the purification ritual themselves become ceremonially unclean until sunset, thus taking on a portion of the impurity and the effort to follow G-d‘s instructions.Typically the priests are the only ones involved beyond the person who is seeking absolution.So G-d provided instructions to Israel about what to do when their lives were touched by death and it included help from their neighbors. Imagine your trouble if your neighbors were unwilling to help. While we do not do these rituals anymore, engaging with ones “neighbors” as part of the grieving process is part of our rituals surrounding death.The loss of one of our children impacted many people beyond my wife and me. Although we are very private people, having a wider community around us was helpful and ultimately resulted in a closer and stronger marital relationship.After a water shortage, the Israelites started to complain again. The focus on this incident, however, was on the failure of Moses and Aaron to follow G-d’s instructions and instead to use their own method to produce water.By disobeying G-d’s specific instructions, Moses and Aaron exhibited attitudes of personal rebellion against G-d. Likely it was their frustration and anger at the people's continual whining and lack of trust and support that caused the impulsive action.Commitment to G-d’s program cannot be a partway proposition. Despite Moses’ great success in the past, this failure kept him and Aaron out of the Promised Land. This illustrates the importance of obedience to G-d’s Word, especially if we are in a leadership position.Although his failure undoubtedly brought him a great deal of personal pain and disappointment, notice that in spite of the severe judgment by G-d, Moses shows no bitter feelings toward G-d; neither did he neglect his responsibilities. His recovery from personal failure and his continued faithful service to G-d are evidence of Moses’ great faith and dependence upon G-d.Note also that G-d allowed him to resume his leadership of the Israelites and his role as their mediator. My mistakes do not disqualify me from future success; they provide opportunities for learning, growth, and dependence upon G-d.I’m back from Israel and we had a wonderful trip. I’m still dealing with jet lag but looking forward to seeing you all on Shabbat and perhaps you'll join me at the 9:00 Teva TefilahBlessings to you and yours.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

This week’s parsha is Chukat: Numbers 19:1-22:1, Isaiah 66:1-24

The context of Numbers 19 is touching, or in close proximity to, a human body that is dead.

When I read G-d’s instructions in Numbers 19, for the “water of purification”, I was struck by the need to involve others in ones community who are ceremonially clean in order to become ceremonially clean oneself. I was also struck that those that help in the purification ritual themselves become ceremonially unclean until sunset, thus taking on a portion of the impurity and the effort to follow G-d‘s instructions.

Typically the priests are the only ones involved beyond the person who is seeking absolution.

So G-d provided instructions to Israel about what to do when their lives were touched by death and it included help from their neighbors. Imagine your trouble if your neighbors were unwilling to help. While we do not do these rituals anymore, engaging with ones “neighbors” as part of the grieving process is part of our rituals surrounding death.

The loss of one of our children impacted many people beyond my wife and me. Although we are very private people, having a wider community around us was helpful and ultimately resulted in a closer and stronger marital relationship.

After a water shortage, the Israelites started to complain again. The focus on this incident, however, was on the failure of Moses and Aaron to follow G-d’s instructions and instead to use their own method to produce water.

By disobeying G-d’s specific instructions, Moses and Aaron exhibited attitudes of personal rebellion against G-d. Likely it was their frustration and anger at the people's continual whining and lack of trust and support that caused the impulsive action.

Commitment to G-d’s program cannot be a partway proposition. Despite Moses’ great success in the past, this failure kept him and Aaron out of the Promised Land. This illustrates the importance of obedience to G-d’s Word, especially if we are in a leadership position.

Although his failure undoubtedly brought him a great deal of personal pain and disappointment, notice that in spite of the severe judgment by G-d, Moses shows no bitter feelings toward G-d; neither did he neglect his responsibilities. His recovery from personal failure and his continued faithful service to G-d are evidence of Moses’ great faith and dependence upon G-d.

Note also that G-d allowed him to resume his leadership of the Israelites and his role as their mediator. My mistakes do not disqualify me from future success; they provide opportunities for learning, growth, and dependence upon G-d.

I’m back from Israel and we had a wonderful trip. I’m still dealing with jet lag but looking forward to seeing you all on Shabbat and perhaps you'll join me at the 9:00 Teva Tefilah

The three stories in this parsha illustrate the priority of Aaron’s priesthood in God’s leadership of his people, the Israelites. G-d made it clear that Aaron was His chosen spiritual leader. Proper worship of G-d could only come through Aaron’s high priesthood.

As so often happens in congregations, someone who feels discontented, slighted, or jealous, builds an army to back him up and then takes on the leader.

Some years ago the Southern Baptist Convention reported that their pastors, on average, were at a congregation about 2 years before moving on. This is barely enough time to become familiar with the issues and G-d’s priorities for a congregation.

My observation is that their pastors move on because the congregation, and especially the leadership, stops being willing to follow.

Whether at work, at home or in a congregation, unity behind goals and methods are a prerequisite to a successful and harmonious completion of projects and tasks. In the absence of sin or serious incompetence, what remains is preference.

I believe it is my job, as a follower, to support the leader’s preferences as G-d has placed them in that position and over me. I believe if I can not follow, cheerfully and wholeheartedly, then it is time for me to quietly move on.

But even slandered by Korah, his opposition, we see Moses and Aaron “pleading” with G-d to spare the lives of the wider community who had allowed themselves to be “stirred up” by Korah and joined his cause. Even though angry, hurt and underactive assault, what an example Moses and Aaron set for us as they attempt to find reconciliation with G-d for those not at the core of the sin.

In so far as I choose opposition, ridicule and unrelenting criticism and denigration towards others, my life withers and is consumed by anger and bitterness. But when I choose, support, patience, encouragement and silence, my life blossoms and is made fuller, more peaceful and productive.

As with Moses and Aaron, we see in a similar sense our Rabbi, doing much the same during conflict which is common to any family or congregation. He often “pleads” with the party’s to take the higher road and to reconcile. This is an example I try to emulate and hope you do as well.

I’m in Israel today and hope you’ll pray for me to be G-d’s light in the Land and to seek the “golden path” with optimism in your life and the life of the Temple.

As you are able, I hope you’ll join the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Korach: Numbers 16:1-18:32, 1Samuel 11:14-12:22parsha is Korach: Numbers 16:1-18:32, 1Samuel 11:14-12:22The three stories in this parsha illustrate the priority of Aaron’s priesthood in God’s leadership of his people, the Israelites. G-d made it clear that Aaron was His chosen spiritual leader. Proper worship of G-d could only come through Aaron’s high priesthood.As so often happens in congregations, someone who feels discontented, slighted, or jealous, builds an army to back him up and then takes on the leader.Some years ago the Southern Baptist Convention reported that their pastors, on average, were at a congregation about 2 years before moving on. This is barely enough time to become familiar with the issues and G-d’s priorities for a congregation.My observation is that their pastors move on because the congregation, and especially the leadership, stops being willing to follow.Whether at work, at home or in a congregation, unity behind goals and methods are a prerequisite to a successful and harmonious completion of projects and tasks. In the absence of sin or serious incompetence, what remains is preference.I believe it is my job, as a follower, to support the leader’s preferences as G-d has placed them in that position and over me. I believe if I can not follow, cheerfully and wholeheartedly, then it is time for me to quietly move on.But even slandered by Korah, his opposition, we see Moses and Aaron “pleading” with G-d to spare the lives of the wider community who had allowed themselves to be “stirred up” by Korah and joined his cause. Even though angry, hurt and underactive assault, what an example Moses and Aaron set for us as they attempt to find reconciliation with G-d for those not at the core of the sin.In so far as I choose opposition, ridicule and unrelenting criticism and denigration towards others, my life withers and is consumed by anger and bitterness. But when I choose, support, patience, encouragement and silence, my life blossoms and is made fuller, more peaceful and productive.As with Moses and Aaron, we see in a similar sense our Rabbi, doing much the same during conflict which is common to any family or congregation. He often “pleads” with the party’s to take the higher road and to reconcile. This is an example I try to emulate and hope you do as well.I’m in Israel today and hope you’ll pray for me to be G-d’s light in the Land and to seek the “golden path” with optimism in your life and the life of the Temple.As you are able, I hope you’ll join the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.Blessings to you and yours.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

This week’s parsha is Korach: Numbers 16:1-18:32, 1Samuel 11:14-12:22

parsha is Korach: Numbers 16:1-18:32, 1Samuel 11:14-12:22

The three stories in this parsha illustrate the priority of Aaron’s priesthood in God’s leadership of his people, the Israelites. G-d made it clear that Aaron was His chosen spiritual leader. Proper worship of G-d could only come through Aaron’s high priesthood.

As so often happens in congregations, someone who feels discontented, slighted, or jealous, builds an army to back him up and then takes on the leader.

Some years ago the Southern Baptist Convention reported that their pastors, on average, were at a congregation about 2 years before moving on. This is barely enough time to become familiar with the issues and G-d’s priorities for a congregation.

My observation is that their pastors move on because the congregation, and especially the leadership, stops being willing to follow.

Whether at work, at home or in a congregation, unity behind goals and methods are a prerequisite to a successful and harmonious completion of projects and tasks. In the absence of sin or serious incompetence, what remains is preference.

I believe it is my job, as a follower, to support the leader’s preferences as G-d has placed them in that position and over me. I believe if I can not follow, cheerfully and wholeheartedly, then it is time for me to quietly move on.

But even slandered by Korah, his opposition, we see Moses and Aaron “pleading” with G-d to spare the lives of the wider community who had allowed themselves to be “stirred up” by Korah and joined his cause. Even though angry, hurt and underactive assault, what an example Moses and Aaron set for us as they attempt to find reconciliation with G-d for those not at the core of the sin.

In so far as I choose opposition, ridicule and unrelenting criticism and denigration towards others, my life withers and is consumed by anger and bitterness. But when I choose, support, patience, encouragement and silence, my life blossoms and is made fuller, more peaceful and productive.

As with Moses and Aaron, we see in a similar sense our Rabbi, doing much the same during conflict which is common to any family or congregation. He often “pleads” with the party’s to take the higher road and to reconcile. This is an example I try to emulate and hope you do as well.

I’m in Israel today and hope you’ll pray for me to be G-d’s light in the Land and to seek the “golden path” with optimism in your life and the life of the Temple.

As you are able, I hope you’ll join the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.

We see in Numbers that Israel is about to enter the Promised Land. Scouts are sent out and return with a poor report except for Joshua and Caleb. Israel rebels and G-d disciplines them. G-d reviews with them His commandments about offerings, the Sabbath and clothing.

When I am the most fearful it is typically because I have taken ownership for the outcome of my problem when I should have left the results to G-d as the Israelites were unwilling to do. I’m the happiest and most helpful to G-d and those around me when I am able to do the things I know G-d wants me to do and to leave the results to Him.

Notice that the faith of Joshua and Caleb allowed them to see problems as opportunities for G-d to demonstrate His power and not as obstacles. My observation is that those with a solid, mature, active faith tend to emphasize the positive rather than the negative during life’s challenges.

This does not mean that they get up in the morning and say, “Goodie, another day of pain.” But they do look for the silver lining and for the “golden path” that G-d has threaded through the problem that leads us to a stronger more confident faith in Him and a more mature, skillful and sanctified life.

The fear and opposition expressed by the rebelling Israelites showed that they failed to see themselves like G-d saw them. They were and are His chosen people and He promised not to let them fail if they followed His leading. But they wanted to count on their own strength and wisdom instead.

Even though Joshua and Caleb had shown a solid commitment and faith in G-d, they had to accept wandering in the wilderness just like the rest of Israel. My wife sometimes has to deal with pain when G-d is sending trials into my life to get me to change direction. And of course it works the other way also.

When G-d restated many of the Levitical laws, I believe, it was to double down on training the next generation of Israelites. In order to enter the Promised Land and be blessed, they needed to realize that they were accountable to Him, and that privilege brings responsibility.

I’m in Israel today and hope you’ll pray for me to be G-d’s light in the Land and to seek the “golden path” with optimism in your life and the life of the Temple.

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Parsha Shelach: Numbers 13:1-15:41, Joshua 2:1-24We see in Numbers that Israel is about to enter the Promised Land. Scouts are sent out and return with a poor report except for Joshua and Caleb. Israel rebels and G-d disciplines them. G-d reviews with them His commandments about offerings, the Sabbath and clothing.When I am the most fearful it is typically because I have taken ownership for the outcome of my problem when I should have left the results to G-d as the Israelites were unwilling to do. I’m the happiest and most helpful to G-d and those around me when I am able to do the things I know G-d wants me to do and to leave the results to Him.Notice that the faith of Joshua and Caleb allowed them to see problems as opportunities for G-d to demonstrate His power and not as obstacles. My observation is that those with a solid, mature, active faith tend to emphasize the positive rather than the negative during life’s challenges.This does not mean that they get up in the morning and say, “Goodie, another day of pain.” But they do look for the silver lining and for the “golden path” that G-d has threaded through the problem that leads us to a stronger more confident faith in Him and a more mature, skillful and sanctified life.The fear and opposition expressed by the rebelling Israelites showed that they failed to see themselves like G-d saw them. They were and are His chosen people and He promised not to let them fail if they followed His leading. But they wanted to count on their own strength and wisdom instead.Even though Joshua and Caleb had shown a solid commitment and faith in G-d, they had to accept wandering in the wilderness just like the rest of Israel. My wife sometimes has to deal with pain when G-d is sending trials into my life to get me to change direction. And of course it works the other way also.When G-d restated many of the Levitical laws, I believe, it was to double down on training the next generation of Israelites. In order to enter the Promised Land and be blessed, they needed to realize that they were accountable to Him, and that privilege brings responsibility.I’m in Israel today and hope you’ll pray for me to be G-d’s light in the Land and to seek the “golden path” with optimism in your life and the life of the Temple.Blessings to you and yours.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

We see in Numbers that Israel is about to enter the Promised Land. Scouts are sent out and return with a poor report except for Joshua and Caleb. Israel rebels and G-d disciplines them. G-d reviews with them His commandments about offerings, the Sabbath and clothing.

When I am the most fearful it is typically because I have taken ownership for the outcome of my problem when I should have left the results to G-d as the Israelites were unwilling to do. I’m the happiest and most helpful to G-d and those around me when I am able to do the things I know G-d wants me to do and to leave the results to Him.

Notice that the faith of Joshua and Caleb allowed them to see problems as opportunities for G-d to demonstrate His power and not as obstacles. My observation is that those with a solid, mature, active faith tend to emphasize the positive rather than the negative during life’s challenges.

This does not mean that they get up in the morning and say, “Goodie, another day of pain.” But they do look for the silver lining and for the “golden path” that G-d has threaded through the problem that leads us to a stronger more confident faith in Him and a more mature, skillful and sanctified life.

The fear and opposition expressed by the rebelling Israelites showed that they failed to see themselves like G-d saw them. They were and are His chosen people and He promised not to let them fail if they followed His leading. But they wanted to count on their own strength and wisdom instead.

Even though Joshua and Caleb had shown a solid commitment and faith in G-d, they had to accept wandering in the wilderness just like the rest of Israel. My wife sometimes has to deal with pain when G-d is sending trials into my life to get me to change direction. And of course it works the other way also.

When G-d restated many of the Levitical laws, I believe, it was to double down on training the next generation of Israelites. In order to enter the Promised Land and be blessed, they needed to realize that they were accountable to Him, and that privilege brings responsibility.

I’m in Israel today and hope you’ll pray for me to be G-d’s light in the Land and to seek the “golden path” with optimism in your life and the life of the Temple.

The Levitical priests not only offered sacrifices and offerings to G-d but, they were to consider themselves “living sacrifices.” Their lives were to be given completely over to G-d.

I know that a life founded on commitment to G-d contains all the essential ingredients for a life filled with contentment and purpose but at one point in my life I was starting to go the wrong direction with more and more discontentment and less and less peace.

In fact, it was the scriptural concept that my body was a Temple to the Ruach ha-kodesh, also taught in Romans 12:1-2, 1 Peter 2:5, that nagged at me for years to do something about my growing weight.

As the cloud moved, so did the Israelites. They had to stay alert, watching each day for G-d’s guidance. It was essential that the people trust G-d rather than to make their own plans. This object lesson in obedience is the description of what our day-by-day walk with G-d should look like … to trust in him completely and not in ourselves (Proverbs 35-6).

But, I believe, that this is not the same thing as to not plan. My experience has been that G-d points the direction, sets principles for conduct, sets the timing and then often leaves the details to me within the boundaries He has set. So this means that I can set time and financial budgets and completion dates to implement what I understand I am to do but leave the results to Him. What has been your experience?

The Israelites’ were entering new territory on their way to building new lives, but the immediate results were not encouraging. About two years after their salvation from Egypt, the Israelites started to complain. It went downhill from there.

As they set out for the Promised Land, they were not willing to trust G-d to lead and protect them. Their weak faith and ingratitude showed up in their impatience with G-d and Moses, which ultimately resulted in 38 more years wandering and the previous Golden Calf incident.

My experience has been that re-building myself from the inside out, involves uncharted territory. It takes great patience to let G-d guide me each step of the way. Often He puts others in my life to help me.

Even though God’s presence was with Israel, evidenced by the cloud and Ark, Moses continually prayed for the well-being of his people. Moses knew the importance of intercessory prayer. Praying for others, especially for those who are in the process of some form of recovery, is often overlooked but is vital as part of that process. This is why TAJ’s core values are the 3 Ps: Prayer, Proclamation, and People.

As you are able, I hope you’ll pray for me and the Temple during your day and at the Temple at the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,
This week’s parsha is Beha’alotcha: Numbers 8:1-12:16, Zechariah 2:14-4:7, "when you step up."
The Levitical priests not only offered sacrifices and offerings to G-d but, they were to consider themselves “living sacrifices.” Their lives were to be given completely over to G-d.
I know that a life founded on commitment to G-d contains all the essential ingredients for a life filled with contentment and purpose but at one point in my life I was starting to go the wrong direction with more and more discontentment and less and less peace.
In fact, it was the scriptural concept that my body was a Temple to the Ruach ha-kodesh, also taught in Romans 12:1-2, 1 Peter 2:5, that nagged at me for years to do something about my growing weight.
As the cloud moved, so did the Israelites. They had to stay alert, watching each day for G-d’s guidance. It was essential that the people trust G-d rather than to make their own plans. This object lesson in obedience is the description of what our day-by-day walk with G-d should look like … to trust in him completely and not in ourselves (Proverbs 35-6).
But, I believe, that this is not the same thing as to not plan. My experience has been that G-d points the direction, sets principles for conduct, sets the timing and then often leaves the details to me within the boundaries He has set. So this means that I can set time and financial budgets and completion dates to implement what I understand I am to do but leave the results to Him. What has been your experience?
The Israelites’ were entering new territory on their way to building new lives, but the immediate results were not encouraging. About two years after their salvation from Egypt, the Israelites started to complain. It went downhill from there.
As they set out for the Promised Land, they were not willing to trust G-d to lead and protect them. Their weak faith and ingratitude showed up in their impatience with G-d and Moses, which ultimately resulted in 38 more years wandering and the previous Golden Calf incident.
My experience has been that re-building myself from the inside out, involves uncharted territory. It takes great patience to let G-d guide me each step of the way. Often He puts others in my life to help me.
Even though God’s presence was with Israel, evidenced by the cloud and Ark, Moses continually prayed for the well-being of his people. Moses knew the importance of intercessory prayer. Praying for others, especially for those who are in the process of some form of recovery, is often overlooked but is vital as part of that process. This is why TAJ’s core values are the 3 Ps: Prayer, Proclamation, and People.
As you are able, I hope you’ll pray for me and the Temple during your day and at the Temple at the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.
Blessings to you and yours.
Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,
Kurt

The Levitical priests not only offered sacrifices and offerings to G-d but, they were to consider themselves “living sacrifices.” Their lives were to be given completely over to G-d.

I know that a life founded on commitment to G-d contains all the essential ingredients for a life filled with contentment and purpose but at one point in my life I was starting to go the wrong direction with more and more discontentment and less and less peace.

In fact, it was the scriptural concept that my body was a Temple to the Ruach ha-kodesh, also taught in Romans 12:1-2, 1 Peter 2:5, that nagged at me for years to do something about my growing weight.

As the cloud moved, so did the Israelites. They had to stay alert, watching each day for G-d’s guidance. It was essential that the people trust G-d rather than to make their own plans. This object lesson in obedience is the description of what our day-by-day walk with G-d should look like … to trust in him completely and not in ourselves (Proverbs 35-6).

But, I believe, that this is not the same thing as to not plan. My experience has been that G-d points the direction, sets principles for conduct, sets the timing and then often leaves the details to me within the boundaries He has set. So this means that I can set time and financial budgets and completion dates to implement what I understand I am to do but leave the results to Him. What has been your experience?

The Israelites’ were entering new territory on their way to building new lives, but the immediate results were not encouraging. About two years after their salvation from Egypt, the Israelites started to complain. It went downhill from there.

As they set out for the Promised Land, they were not willing to trust G-d to lead and protect them. Their weak faith and ingratitude showed up in their impatience with G-d and Moses, which ultimately resulted in 38 more years wandering and the previous Golden Calf incident.

My experience has been that re-building myself from the inside out, involves uncharted territory. It takes great patience to let G-d guide me each step of the way. Often He puts others in my life to help me.

Even though God’s presence was with Israel, evidenced by the cloud and Ark, Moses continually prayed for the well-being of his people. Moses knew the importance of intercessory prayer. Praying for others, especially for those who are in the process of some form of recovery, is often overlooked but is vital as part of that process. This is why TAJ’s core values are the 3 Ps: Prayer, Proclamation, and People.

As you are able, I hope you’ll pray for me and the Temple during your day and at the Temple at the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.

Nasso is Hebrew for "lift up". G-d continues teaching Israel about relationships with each other and with Him, a form of lifting up.

I am grateful that G-d has provided clear, simple steps for making amends to those I have harmed. Over and over, both in the Tanakh and Brit Chadashah, we see this pattern: Sin, repentance, restitution, forgiveness and restored relationships. And the steps must always be in this order to end in a truly restored relationship.

In Numbers, the steps include admitting the wrong(s) I have done, repentance, and providing restitution to the injured party, a form of sacrifice, as well as a Temple sacrifice to G-d, also an injured party.

Without following this pattern to deal with the consequences of sin, which include compulsive behaviors, none of us can have the quality of live and relationships G-d intends for each of us.

The passages in Numbers 6:11-31 are designed to protect marital faithfulness and are some of G-d’s commands that I wish He had handled differently. To my modern eyes it looks like it enables a warped and vindictive husband to torment a faithful wife. And just as bad, these regulations do not apply to the husband who, the Bible often shows, is the one more likely to be unfaithful.

But I’m not G-d and do not get to exclude from the Cannon, like some do, those versus that I do not like. The passages here stress the seriousness of adultery and underscores the covenant relationship we have both with Him and with a spouse.

The principle of personal accountability is always necessary for me, or anyone, that seeks to live a covenant life pleasing to G-d. Self-discipline and self-examination both play key roles in my relationship with G-d and those around me, especially as I continue to deal with my hurts, habits and hang ups. The Nazirite Vow would be impossible to keep without self-discipline and self-examination.

Numbers 6:24-26 speaks the Blessing that Greg so faithfully provides on all of us each Shabbat. The Hebrew word for “peace” means much more than an absence of conflict. It implies a complete sense of well-being, health, and contentment. G-d offers this to anyone who is willing to follow Him and especially to those whose lives have been bruised and broken.

So when I’m in the middle of crud falling on my head, while I continue to pursue the path I believe He has set before me, my goal is to be content and peaceful with whatever result G-d provides as I walk His path. Far easier to say here than to do, but an important “First Principle” in my life.

Numbers 7 shows that the way I use my possessions is an important part of my accountability to G-d and my faith community. G-d’s ministry depends on personal and family gifts in order to meet the needs around us. We see that gifts can be physical or time, but the nature and amount are to be voluntary and from the heart with an attitude of generosity and, as needed, sacrifice.

As you are able, I hope you’ll give both me and the Temple the gift of prayer, both during your day, and at the Temple at the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.

Blessings on you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Nasso: Numbers 4:21-7:89, Judges 13:2-25, Acts 21:17-26Nasso is Hebrew for "lift up". G-d continues teaching Israel about relationships with each other and with Him, a form of lifting up.I am grateful that G-d has provided clear, simple steps for making amends to those I have harmed. Over and over, both in the Tanakh and Brit Chadashah, we see this pattern: Sin, repentance, restitution, forgiveness and restored relationships. And the steps must always be in this order to end in a truly restored relationship.In Numbers, the steps include admitting the wrong(s) I have done, repentance, and providing restitution to the injured party, a form of sacrifice, as well as a Temple sacrifice to G-d, also an injured party.Without following this pattern to deal with the consequences of sin, which include compulsive behaviors, none of us can have the quality of live and relationships G-d intends for each of us.The passages in Numbers 6:11-31 are designed to protect marital faithfulness and are some of G-d’s commands that I wish He had handled differently. To my modern eyes it looks like it enables a warped and vindictive husband to torment a faithful wife. And just as bad, these regulations do not apply to the husband who, the Bible often shows, is the one more likely to be unfaithful.But I’m not G-d and do not get to exclude from the Cannon, like some do, those versus that I do not like. The passages here stress the seriousness of adultery and underscores the covenant relationship we have both with Him and with a spouse.The principle of personal accountability is always necessary for me, or anyone, that seeks to live a covenant life pleasing to G-d. Self-discipline and self-examination both play key roles in my relationship with G-d and those around me, especially as I continue to deal with my hurts, habits and hang ups. The Nazirite Vow would be impossible to keep without self-discipline and self-examination.Numbers 6:24-26 speaks the Blessing that Greg so faithfully provides on all of us each Shabbat. The Hebrew word for “peace” means much more than an absence of conflict. It implies a complete sense of well-being, health, and contentment. G-d offers this to anyone who is willing to follow Him and especially to those whose lives have been bruised and broken.So when I’m in the middle of crud falling on my head, while I continue to pursue the path I believe He has set before me, my goal is to be content and peaceful with whatever result G-d provides as I walk His path. Far easier to say here than to do, but an important “First Principle” in my life.Numbers 7 shows that the way I use my possessions is an important part of my accountability to G-d and my faith community. G-d’s ministry depends on personal and family gifts in order to meet the needs around us. We see that gifts can be physical or time, but the nature and amount are to be voluntary and from the heart with an attitude of generosity and, as needed, sacrifice.As you are able, I hope you’ll give both me and the Temple the gift of prayer, both during your day, and at the Temple at the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.Blessings on you and yours.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Nasso is Hebrew for "lift up". G-d continues teaching Israel about relationships with each other and with Him, a form of lifting up.

I am grateful that G-d has provided clear, simple steps for making amends to those I have harmed. Over and over, both in the Tanakh and Brit Chadashah, we see this pattern: Sin, repentance, restitution, forgiveness and restored relationships. And the steps must always be in this order to end in a truly restored relationship.

In Numbers, the steps include admitting the wrong(s) I have done, repentance, and providing restitution to the injured party, a form of sacrifice, as well as a Temple sacrifice to G-d, also an injured party.

Without following this pattern to deal with the consequences of sin, which include compulsive behaviors, none of us can have the quality of live and relationships G-d intends for each of us.

The passages in Numbers 6:11-31 are designed to protect marital faithfulness and are some of G-d’s commands that I wish He had handled differently. To my modern eyes it looks like it enables a warped and vindictive husband to torment a faithful wife. And just as bad, these regulations do not apply to the husband who, the Bible often shows, is the one more likely to be unfaithful.

But I’m not G-d and do not get to exclude from the Cannon, like some do, those versus that I do not like. The passages here stress the seriousness of adultery and underscores the covenant relationship we have both with Him and with a spouse.

The principle of personal accountability is always necessary for me, or anyone, that seeks to live a covenant life pleasing to G-d. Self-discipline and self-examination both play key roles in my relationship with G-d and those around me, especially as I continue to deal with my hurts, habits and hang ups. The Nazirite Vow would be impossible to keep without self-discipline and self-examination.

Numbers 6:24-26 speaks the Blessing that Greg so faithfully provides on all of us each Shabbat. The Hebrew word for “peace” means much more than an absence of conflict. It implies a complete sense of well-being, health, and contentment. G-d offers this to anyone who is willing to follow Him and especially to those whose lives have been bruised and broken.

So when I’m in the middle of crud falling on my head, while I continue to pursue the path I believe He has set before me, my goal is to be content and peaceful with whatever result G-d provides as I walk His path. Far easier to say here than to do, but an important “First Principle” in my life.

Numbers 7 shows that the way I use my possessions is an important part of my accountability to G-d and my faith community. G-d’s ministry depends on personal and family gifts in order to meet the needs around us. We see that gifts can be physical or time, but the nature and amount are to be voluntary and from the heart with an attitude of generosity and, as needed, sacrifice.

As you are able, I hope you’ll give both me and the Temple the gift of prayer, both during your day, and at the Temple at the 9:00 am Shabbat prayer session.

We see in Numbers that a census was taken about one year after the Israelites release from Egypt but before they refused to trust G-d to defend them as they took possession of the land He promised.

Although the census had a military purpose, it also was a powerful reminder that each individual had a common unity, family heritage and purpose within the wider family of Israel. That sense of unity and purpose was essential if they had any hope of being able to follow the L-rd’s commands as well as take control of the Promised Land while under attack from their enemies.

It disturbs me deeply to imagine Temple as a place where chaos and strong disagreement reign.

We also see that G-d arranged their encampments so that He was at the center with the Tabernacle and then surrounded the Tabernacle with all the family groups. This helped them, I believe, to remember to keep G-d in constant focus and the center of their thoughts and actions.

It is similar today when we use, for example, a tallit, mezuzah, or phylactery. During the day I tend to operate “head down” focused on the immediate tasks before me and do not look up much. So I need regular reminders to consider G-d’s priorities for all I do.

Although through prayer, study and quiet listening, G-d communicates with me, He uses the people around me as his hands and feet and sometimes mouth. So I can not face life’s challenges alone. Nor can I grow in spiritual fruitfulness in a cave. To grow and thrive, I need my blood family, my Temple family, my recovery family, and the friends I have picked up along the way.

We also see a couple of other things. First is that G-d sovereignly chose the leaders and roles they were to perform. Although a great privilege, especially for the Levites, He also made a point to include great responsibility and defined consequences.

Although I am never perfect, my word is my bond and those who know me understand that I never take my commitments lightly nor ignore the consequences, good or bad, of what I do. I call myself His Follower so I believe that I slander Him if I do not keep my commitments and be helpful and encouraging to those around me. We are known by our love said our Master. And what is love if not these things?

Second we see that it was a huge effort to move and supply the camp. It required an efficient operation underpinned with detailed organization and willing cooperation. Without these pillars, chaos, infighting, wasted effort and worse would have overtaken the camp.

This is a great example for Temple and for our own lives. Like G-d, we always need to be mindful of establishing clear lines of responsibility, authority, resources and deadlines to accomplish those tasks which our leaders have put before us through G-d’s agency.

But we can only be effective and efficient in the various groups in which we function if we remain united in vision, underpinned with a willingness to use the gifts He has given each of us and have a helpful humble spirit that seeks to help and comfort others first.

Through your prayers this week, I hope you’ll continue to work with me with your shoulder against our wheel.

Blessings to you and yours.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Parsha B’midbar: Numbers 1:1-4:20, Hosea 2:1-2:22, 1 Corinthians 12:12-20We see in Numbers that a census was taken about one year after the Israelites release from Egypt but before they refused to trust G-d to defend them as they took possession of the land He promised.Although the census had a military purpose, it also was a powerful reminder that each individual had a common unity, family heritage and purpose within the wider family of Israel. That sense of unity and purpose was essential if they had any hope of being able to follow the L-rd’s commands as well as take control of the Promised Land while under attack from their enemies.It disturbs me deeply to imagine Temple as a place where chaos and strong disagreement reign.We also see that G-d arranged their encampments so that He was at the center with the Tabernacle and then surrounded the Tabernacle with all the family groups. This helped them, I believe, to remember to keep G-d in constant focus and the center of their thoughts and actions.It is similar today when we use, for example, a tallit, mezuzah, or phylactery. During the day I tend to operate “head down” focused on the immediate tasks before me and do not look up much. So I need regular reminders to consider G-d’s priorities for all I do.Although through prayer, study and quiet listening, G-d communicates with me, He uses the people around me as his hands and feet and sometimes mouth. So I can not face life’s challenges alone. Nor can I grow in spiritual fruitfulness in a cave. To grow and thrive, I need my blood family, my Temple family, my recovery family, and the friends I have picked up along the way.We also see a couple of other things. First is that G-d sovereignly chose the leaders and roles they were to perform. Although a great privilege, especially for the Levites, He also made a point to include great responsibility and defined consequences.Although I am never perfect, my word is my bond and those who know me understand that I never take my commitments lightly nor ignore the consequences, good or bad, of what I do. I call myself His Follower so I believe that I slander Him if I do not keep my commitments and be helpful and encouraging to those around me. We are known by our love said our Master. And what is love if not these things?Second we see that it was a huge effort to move and supply the camp. It required an efficient operation underpinned with detailed organization and willing cooperation. Without these pillars, chaos, infighting, wasted effort and worse would have overtaken the camp.This is a great example for Temple and for our own lives. Like G-d, we always need to be mindful of establishing clear lines of responsibility, authority, resources and deadlines to accomplish those tasks which our leaders have put before us through G-d’s agency.But we can only be effective and efficient in the various groups in which we function if we remain united in vision, underpinned with a willingness to use the gifts He has given each of us and have a helpful humble spirit that seeks to help and comfort others first.Through your prayers this week, I hope you’ll continue to work with me with your shoulder against our wheel.Blessings to you and yours.I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

We see in Numbers that a census was taken about one year after the Israelites release from Egypt but before they refused to trust G-d to defend them as they took possession of the land He promised.

Although the census had a military purpose, it also was a powerful reminder that each individual had a common unity, family heritage and purpose within the wider family of Israel. That sense of unity and purpose was essential if they had any hope of being able to follow the L-rd’s commands as well as take control of the Promised Land while under attack from their enemies.

It disturbs me deeply to imagine Temple as a place where chaos and strong disagreement reign.

We also see that G-d arranged their encampments so that He was at the center with the Tabernacle and then surrounded the Tabernacle with all the family groups. This helped them, I believe, to remember to keep G-d in constant focus and the center of their thoughts and actions.

It is similar today when we use, for example, a tallit, mezuzah, or phylactery. During the day I tend to operate “head down” focused on the immediate tasks before me and do not look up much. So I need regular reminders to consider G-d’s priorities for all I do.

Although through prayer, study and quiet listening, G-d communicates with me, He uses the people around me as his hands and feet and sometimes mouth. So I can not face life’s challenges alone. Nor can I grow in spiritual fruitfulness in a cave. To grow and thrive, I need my blood family, my Temple family, my recovery family, and the friends I have picked up along the way.

We also see a couple of other things. First is that G-d sovereignly chose the leaders and roles they were to perform. Although a great privilege, especially for the Levites, He also made a point to include great responsibility and defined consequences.

Although I am never perfect, my word is my bond and those who know me understand that I never take my commitments lightly nor ignore the consequences, good or bad, of what I do. I call myself His Follower so I believe that I slander Him if I do not keep my commitments and be helpful and encouraging to those around me. We are known by our love said our Master. And what is love if not these things?

Second we see that it was a huge effort to move and supply the camp. It required an efficient operation underpinned with detailed organization and willing cooperation. Without these pillars, chaos, infighting, wasted effort and worse would have overtaken the camp.

This is a great example for Temple and for our own lives. Like G-d, we always need to be mindful of establishing clear lines of responsibility, authority, resources and deadlines to accomplish those tasks which our leaders have put before us through G-d’s agency.

But we can only be effective and efficient in the various groups in which we function if we remain united in vision, underpinned with a willingness to use the gifts He has given each of us and have a helpful humble spirit that seeks to help and comfort others first.

Through your prayers this week, I hope you’ll continue to work with me with your shoulder against our wheel.

My research says that the Hebrew word for Bechukotai, “decree", literally means "engraved". I like the idea of engraved. When something is engraved it is permanent and it has a bond with the thing upon which it is etched. Unfortunately, I sometimes feel like His precepts have been written on me with erasable ink.

I yelled at my wife last week over something stupid. Although I apologized later, not following G-d’s commandments works like sand in running water and grinds away at relationships. And for the bigger problems, it is like a burst dam that destroys everything in its path.

We read in this week’s Scripture that as punishment for delaying, perverting, and corrupting judgment, and neglecting Torah, sword and spoil increase, pestilence and famine come, and people eat and are not satisfied.

I find and observe that when I or anyone cross the boundaries that G-d has setup that my life, in effect, becomes full of the sword (conflict), pestilence (health) and famine (financial).

On the surface we see that when G-d uses “if” He is partly speaking about a transactional relationship. It does sort of sound like we are earning favor if we follow G-d’s rules. But I think it is really about G-d trying to help us understand about consequences. Like, “If you stand on the roof of a 10 story building you'll fall off and splat.” Or, “If you walk on the catwalk you will not fall off the 10 story building.”

So when used by G-d, I've come to understand the word "if" as a plea on the part of G-d: "If only you would follow My statutes..."

As Messianics we know His commands are indelibly written upon our hearts; like a letter in the Torah. Some Rabbi’s teach that the letters on the tablets of the Ten Commandments were not just carved partway into the stone but were bored all the way through front to back making every inch of stone both the medium and the substance of the letters. As Spirit filled Yeshua followers, we are filled front to back.

It is so frustrating that I have so much trouble being consistent. But I find it helps if, before I get out of my bedroom in the morning, I pray and meditate asking G-d for:

· Guidance for the day and to let me know when I have strayed off His path.

· Bring to mind anyone that I have harmed the previous day so I can make amends to them today.

· Bring to mind anyone that I need to forgive for any harm they have done to me so I can forgive them now.

· Strength and a changed heart to be willing to make amends and offer forgiveness to those that I want Him to rain lighting upon.

And then I’m quiet for a while and listen to see if G-d has anything to say to me.

Even with G-d’s help, I find it is hard to continuously shovel out the dust and dirt of my life from the letter that He has written on my heart so I do not distort and even conceal it. But I know that even when I am not able to see the letter, that it remains whole with all its perfection and beauty. I find that reassuring.

I hope you’ll continue to work with me in our shovel brigade through your prayers this week.

Blessings to you and yours.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Parsha Bechukotai: Leviticus 26:3-27:34, Jeremiah 16:19-17:14,John 14:15-21; 15:10-12My research says that the Hebrew word for Bechukotai, “decree", literally means "engraved". I like the idea of engraved. When something is engraved it is permanent and it has a bond with the thing upon which it is etched. Unfortunately, I sometimes feel like His precepts have been written on me with erasable ink.I yelled at my wife last week over something stupid. Although I apologized later, not following G-d’s commandments works like sand in running water and grinds away at relationships. And for the bigger problems, it is like a burst dam that destroys everything in its path.We read in this week’s Scripture that as punishment for delaying, perverting, and corrupting judgment, and neglecting Torah, sword and spoil increase, pestilence and famine come, and people eat and are not satisfied.I find and observe that when I or anyone cross the boundaries that G-d has setup that my life, in effect, becomes full of the sword (conflict), pestilence (health) and famine (financial).On the surface we see that when G-d uses “if” He is partly speaking about a transactional relationship. It does sort of sound like we are earning favor if we follow G-d’s rules. But I think it is really about G-d trying to help us understand about consequences. Like, “If you stand on the roof of a 10 story building you'll fall off and splat.” Or, “If you walk on the catwalk you will not fall off the 10 story building.”So when used by G-d, I've come to understand the word "if" as a plea on the part of G-d: "If only you would follow My statutes..."As Messianics we know His commands are indelibly written upon our hearts; like a letter in the Torah. Some Rabbi’s teach that the letters on the tablets of the Ten Commandments were not just carved partway into the stone but were bored all the way through front to back making every inch of stone both the medium and the substance of the letters. As Spirit filled Yeshua followers, we are filled front to back.It is so frustrating that I have so much trouble being consistent. But I find it helps if, before I get out of my bedroom in the morning, I pray and meditate asking G-d for:· Guidance for the day and to let me know when I have strayed off His path.
· Bring to mind anyone that I have harmed the previous day so I can make amends to them today.
· Bring to mind anyone that I need to forgive for any harm they have done to me so I can forgive them now.
· Strength and a changed heart to be willing to make amends and offer forgiveness to those that I want Him to rain lighting upon.
And then I’m quiet for a while and listen to see if G-d has anything to say to me.
Even with G-d’s help, I find it is hard to continuously shovel out the dust and dirt of my life from the letter that He has written on my heart so I do not distort and even conceal it. But I know that even when I am not able to see the letter, that it remains whole with all its perfection and beauty. I find that reassuring.I hope you’ll continue to work with me in our shovel brigade through your prayers this week.Blessings to you and yours.I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

My research says that the Hebrew word for Bechukotai, “decree", literally means "engraved". I like the idea of engraved. When something is engraved it is permanent and it has a bond with the thing upon which it is etched. Unfortunately, I sometimes feel like His precepts have been written on me with erasable ink.

I yelled at my wife last week over something stupid. Although I apologized later, not following G-d’s commandments works like sand in running water and grinds away at relationships. And for the bigger problems, it is like a burst dam that destroys everything in its path.

We read in this week’s Scripture that as punishment for delaying, perverting, and corrupting judgment, and neglecting Torah, sword and spoil increase, pestilence and famine come, and people eat and are not satisfied.

I find and observe that when I or anyone cross the boundaries that G-d has setup that my life, in effect, becomes full of the sword (conflict), pestilence (health) and famine (financial).

On the surface we see that when G-d uses “if” He is partly speaking about a transactional relationship. It does sort of sound like we are earning favor if we follow G-d’s rules. But I think it is really about G-d trying to help us understand about consequences. Like, “If you stand on the roof of a 10 story building you'll fall off and splat.” Or, “If you walk on the catwalk you will not fall off the 10 story building.”

So when used by G-d, I've come to understand the word "if" as a plea on the part of G-d: "If only you would follow My statutes..."

As Messianics we know His commands are indelibly written upon our hearts; like a letter in the Torah. Some Rabbi’s teach that the letters on the tablets of the Ten Commandments were not just carved partway into the stone but were bored all the way through front to back making every inch of stone both the medium and the substance of the letters. As Spirit filled Yeshua followers, we are filled front to back.

It is so frustrating that I have so much trouble being consistent. But I find it helps if, before I get out of my bedroom in the morning, I pray and meditate asking G-d for:

· Guidance for the day and to let me know when I have strayed off His path.

· Bring to mind anyone that I have harmed the previous day so I can make amends to them today.

· Bring to mind anyone that I need to forgive for any harm they have done to me so I can forgive them now.

· Strength and a changed heart to be willing to make amends and offer forgiveness to those that I want Him to rain lighting upon.

And then I’m quiet for a while and listen to see if G-d has anything to say to me.

Even with G-d’s help, I find it is hard to continuously shovel out the dust and dirt of my life from the letter that He has written on my heart so I do not distort and even conceal it. But I know that even when I am not able to see the letter, that it remains whole with all its perfection and beauty. I find that reassuring.

I hope you’ll continue to work with me in our shovel brigade through your prayers this week.

In Leviticus we are told by G-d about the Sabbath Year, the Year of Jubilee, redemption of property, redemption of the poor and enslaved, blessings for obedience, and punishments for disobedience. Wow, it covers a lot of ground about relationships with those around us and with G-d.

Shabbat rest from work is in itself an act of faith which proves our belief that G-d will provide for us. Everything I own or touch, my home, family, career, health, and my marriage all come from His generous hand. Although I readily acknowledge the source I often feel like I take the things that make up my life for granted and even as a right when, at best, I am a tenant or steward.

But the rubber of my rhetoric meets the asphalt of my life when I contemplate not working for a year and living on the reserves I’ve laid up in the previous six years as He instructed Israel to do. To be able to afford to do that would be a radically different lifestyle than the one that I have lived.

Having more than a little asphalt in my life I have come to understand that true contentment comes only when I accept my life, with all that it contains, as belonging to Him. It is easier to give up my health or house or etc. if I have accepted that it never belonged to me in the first place. And it makes it easier, during the trial, to give glory to G-d and to act on opportunities to be that light shining in the world. Who can live such a radicle life in isolation? I certainly can’t.

The fellowship of G-d’s people was always intended as redemptive; emotionally, spiritually and physically, those in need were cared for by those with plenty. Similarly, my food recovery depends on those with more recovery than me, sharing their hope and experience with me.

I and, I believe, we can not live a holly life that shows growing fruits of the Spirit, without one another. It takes support and encouragement (a relationship beyond Shabbat) with those in G-d’s family who are closest to me to live a successful life that follows our Master.

Without forgiveness flowing in both directions in relationships, relationships are impossible. We see that even after harsh warnings about the consequences of disobedience, G-d delights in restoring those who turn away and repent.

So this week’s parsha is a partial outline about relationships and a hint about how we should pray. Relationships and prayer “on the mount,” (Behar).

Blessings to you and yours. Be daring in your prayers this week.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Behar: Leviticus 25:1-27:34, Jeremiah 32:6-27, Luke 4:16-21In Leviticus we are told by G-d about the Sabbath Year, the Year of Jubilee, redemption of property, redemption of the poor and enslaved, blessings for obedience, and punishments for disobedience. Wow, it covers a lot of ground about relationships with those around us and with G-d.Shabbat rest from work is in itself an act of faith which proves our belief that G-d will provide for us. Everything I own or touch, my home, family, career, health, and my marriage all come from His generous hand. Although I readily acknowledge the source I often feel like I take the things that make up my life for granted and even as a right when, at best, I am a tenant or steward.But the rubber of my rhetoric meets the asphalt of my life when I contemplate not working for a year and living on the reserves I’ve laid up in the previous six years as He instructed Israel to do. To be able to afford to do that would be a radically different lifestyle than the one that I have lived.Having more than a little asphalt in my life I have come to understand that true contentment comes only when I accept my life, with all that it contains, as belonging to Him. It is easier to give up my health or house or etc. if I have accepted that it never belonged to me in the first place. And it makes it easier, during the trial, to give glory to G-d and to act on opportunities to be that light shining in the world. Who can live such a radicle life in isolation? I certainly can’t.The fellowship of G-d’s people was always intended as redemptive; emotionally, spiritually and physically, those in need were cared for by those with plenty. Similarly, my food recovery depends on those with more recovery than me, sharing their hope and experience with me.I and, I believe, we can not live a holly life that shows growing fruits of the Spirit, without one another. It takes support and encouragement (a relationship beyond Shabbat) with those in G-d’s family who are closest to me to live a successful life that follows our Master.Without forgiveness flowing in both directions in relationships, relationships are impossible. We see that even after harsh warnings about the consequences of disobedience, G-d delights in restoring those who turn away and repent.So this week’s parsha is a partial outline about relationships and a hint about how we should pray. Relationships and prayer “on the mount,” (Behar).Blessings to you and yours. Be daring in your prayers this week.I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

In Leviticus we are told by G-d about the Sabbath Year, the Year of Jubilee, redemption of property, redemption of the poor and enslaved, blessings for obedience, and punishments for disobedience. Wow, it covers a lot of ground about relationships with those around us and with G-d.

Shabbat rest from work is in itself an act of faith which proves our belief that G-d will provide for us. Everything I own or touch, my home, family, career, health, and my marriage all come from His generous hand. Although I readily acknowledge the source I often feel like I take the things that make up my life for granted and even as a right when, at best, I am a tenant or steward.

But the rubber of my rhetoric meets the asphalt of my life when I contemplate not working for a year and living on the reserves I’ve laid up in the previous six years as He instructed Israel to do. To be able to afford to do that would be a radically different lifestyle than the one that I have lived.

Having more than a little asphalt in my life I have come to understand that true contentment comes only when I accept my life, with all that it contains, as belonging to Him. It is easier to give up my health or house or etc. if I have accepted that it never belonged to me in the first place. And it makes it easier, during the trial, to give glory to G-d and to act on opportunities to be that light shining in the world. Who can live such a radicle life in isolation? I certainly can’t.

The fellowship of G-d’s people was always intended as redemptive; emotionally, spiritually and physically, those in need were cared for by those with plenty. Similarly, my food recovery depends on those with more recovery than me, sharing their hope and experience with me.

I and, I believe, we can not live a holly life that shows growing fruits of the Spirit, without one another. It takes support and encouragement (a relationship beyond Shabbat) with those in G-d’s family who are closest to me to live a successful life that follows our Master.

Without forgiveness flowing in both directions in relationships, relationships are impossible. We see that even after harsh warnings about the consequences of disobedience, G-d delights in restoring those who turn away and repent.

So this week’s parsha is a partial outline about relationships and a hint about how we should pray. Relationships and prayer “on the mount,” (Behar).

I told someone during our March of Remembrance last weekend that it is an unfortunate truth about my relationship with Yeshua that I am a better follower of my Master when crud is raining down on me than when it is not. I do not like the pain and stress this causes and wish the need for crud was not necessary at all. It is a rather sad and embarrassing admission.

In the midst of trouble I tend not to take anything for granted, including my relationship with Him, or the fruits and relationships in my life. I tend to be on my face more regularly before Him seeking His guidance and help, giving Him my full attention.

That is how I should be living day to day … giving G-d my full attention. But because I live life amongst the waves in the tidal zone where the tyranny of the urgent routinely displaces the important, I do not.

I think this is one of the reasons that G-d instituted all the festivals, Shabbat on which we do no work, and the other rituals. He knows we are, or at least I am, a slow learner and fast forgetter.

G-d’s ordinances cause me to slow down and reflect on my life and remember that there is no Provider other than G-d and that my life needs to reflect the Holiness and values of my Master.

I believe that G-d calls us to remember His past deliverances and who He is so we have the strength and courage to face our current and future challenges and live for Him in the present. How timid I am sometimes with my faith and life in view of the One to whom I belong. One of my favorite Scriptures, during crud times, is Psalm 77.

Do you struggle from time to time with these issues like I do?

What do you do to get “back in the groove”?

Although I do pray explicitly for outcomes I want for myself, I find I end up with more Peace and better outcomes if I pray more often like this:

Yeshua, I offer myself to you to build with me and to do with me as You wish. Relieve me of my bondage to self, so that I am better able to do Your will. Help me live one day at a time, enjoy one moment at a time and accept hardship as a pathway to Your Peace.

Guide me through this day and show me my next step. Yeshua, give me what I need to take care of these problems so that I may be of maximum service to you and my fellow man, being an example to those around me of Your Power, Your Love, and Your Way of life. Amen

I find praying like this helps release me from the struggle against what I do not like and helps me see and act on the Golden Path that G-d has drawn through the trouble which leads to maximum service to Him and my fellow man.

Blessings to you and yours. Be daring in your prayers this week.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Emor: Leviticus 21:1-24:23, Ezekiel 44:15-31, 1 Peter 2:4-10
I told someone during our March of Remembrance last weekend that it is an unfortunate truth about my relationship with Yeshua that I am a better follower of my Master when crud is raining down on me than when it is not. I do not like the pain and stress this causes and wish the need for crud was not necessary at all. It is a rather sad and embarrassing admission.
In the midst of trouble I tend not to take anything for granted, including my relationship with Him, or the fruits and relationships in my life. I tend to be on my face more regularly before Him seeking His guidance and help, giving Him my full attention.
That is how I should be living day to day … giving G-d my full attention. But because I live life amongst the waves in the tidal zone where the tyranny of the urgent routinely displaces the important, I do not.
I think this is one of the reasons that G-d instituted all the festivals, Shabbat on which we do no work, and the other rituals. He knows we are, or at least I am, a slow learner and fast forgetter.
G-d’s ordinances cause me to slow down and reflect on my life and remember that there is no Provider other than G-d and that my life needs to reflect the Holiness and values of my Master.
I believe that G-d calls us to remember His past deliverances and who He is so we have the strength and courage to face our current and future challenges and live for Him in the present. How timid I am sometimes with my faith and life in view of the One to whom I belong. One of my favorite Scriptures, during crud times, is Psalm 77.
Do you struggle from time to time with these issues like I do?
What do you do to get “back in the groove”?
Although I do pray explicitly for outcomes I want for myself, I find I end up with more Peace and better outcomes if I pray more often like this:
Yeshua, I offer myself to you to build with me and to do with me as You wish. Relieve me of my bondage to self, so that I am better able to do Your will. Help me live one day at a time, enjoy one moment at a time and accept hardship as a pathway to Your Peace.
Guide me through this day and show me my next step. Yeshua, give me what I need to take care of these problems so that I may be of maximum service to you and my fellow man, being an example to those around me of Your Power, Your Love, and Your Way of life. Amen
I find praying like this helps release me from the struggle against what I do not like and helps me see and act on the Golden Path that G-d has drawn through the trouble which leads to maximum service to Him and my fellow man.
Blessings to you and yours. Be daring in your prayers this week.
I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.
Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,
Kurt
To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

I told someone during our March of Remembrance last weekend that it is an unfortunate truth about my relationship with Yeshua that I am a better follower of my Master when crud is raining down on me than when it is not. I do not like the pain and stress this causes and wish the need for crud was not necessary at all. It is a rather sad and embarrassing admission.

In the midst of trouble I tend not to take anything for granted, including my relationship with Him, or the fruits and relationships in my life. I tend to be on my face more regularly before Him seeking His guidance and help, giving Him my full attention.

That is how I should be living day to day … giving G-d my full attention. But because I live life amongst the waves in the tidal zone where the tyranny of the urgent routinely displaces the important, I do not.

I think this is one of the reasons that G-d instituted all the festivals, Shabbat on which we do no work, and the other rituals. He knows we are, or at least I am, a slow learner and fast forgetter.

G-d’s ordinances cause me to slow down and reflect on my life and remember that there is no Provider other than G-d and that my life needs to reflect the Holiness and values of my Master.

I believe that G-d calls us to remember His past deliverances and who He is so we have the strength and courage to face our current and future challenges and live for Him in the present. How timid I am sometimes with my faith and life in view of the One to whom I belong. One of my favorite Scriptures, during crud times, is Psalm 77.

Do you struggle from time to time with these issues like I do?

What do you do to get “back in the groove”?

Although I do pray explicitly for outcomes I want for myself, I find I end up with more Peace and better outcomes if I pray more often like this:

Yeshua, I offer myself to you to build with me and to do with me as You wish. Relieve me of my bondage to self, so that I am better able to do Your will. Help me live one day at a time, enjoy one moment at a time and accept hardship as a pathway to Your Peace.

Guide me through this day and show me my next step. Yeshua, give me what I need to take care of these problems so that I may be of maximum service to you and my fellow man, being an example to those around me of Your Power, Your Love, and Your Way of life. Amen

I find praying like this helps release me from the struggle against what I do not like and helps me see and act on the Golden Path that G-d has drawn through the trouble which leads to maximum service to Him and my fellow man.

G-d has commanded us to be holy … to be set apart and recognizable as such to the wider world. So how would anyone tell we are holy?

One of the ways to show it is to keep our side of the street clean even if there is a personal cost.

Yesterday a peer got, what felt to me like, an unexpected and undeserved spank from a superior related to an information inquiry I made to the superior. My first impulse was not to deal with it because it was potentially embarrassing and could also cause more trouble. But letting it go would have left me uncomfortable with all parties involved.

So I made a point to ask my my peer about it so I could apologize and take corrective action with my superior as needed. As it turned out, my peer did not have a problem with it which left me feeling clear with all the relationships.

We all know that words are cheap and actions speak louder than words.

In this passage in Leviticus, G-d speaks almost exclusively about actions. The only time he speaks of feelings (Lev 19:17), I believe, is because nursing hatred rapidly leads to very bad actions. And nowhere does He talk about talk.

So we see G-d listing many actions, some prohibited and some commanded, which define the actions of someone set apart.

G-d clearly shows here and throughout the Bible that He cares deeply about those among us with physical, emotional, and spiritual problems and injuries. With the heart of G-d we will also show our concern for others through our actions.

To live successfully as a life set apart, demands honesty in both word and deed. Dishonesty and misrepresentation lead to suspicion, mistrust, and hatred, ultimately destroying our relationships. This is why G-d views gossip and persistent negative talk about others so harshly.

Our relationships grow and thrive only if we are willing to tell the truth; the only basis for trust between us. When there is honesty in our relationship, we can confidently look to others for help.

I believe my role in life is to be of maximum service to G-d and to those around me. This requires that I be vigilant, available and willing.

I hope we will all do what it takes to protect our relationships at TAJ and our relationships with all those whom we touch through a willingness to lovingly promote Biblical values and actions.

As it says in Leviticus 19, 16 “‘Do not go around spreading slander among your people, but also don’t stand idly by when your neighbor’s life is at stake; I am ADONAI. 17 “‘Do not hate your brother in your heart, but rebuke your neighbor frankly, so that you won’t carry sin because of him. 18 Don’t take vengeance on or bear a grudge against any of your people; rather, love your neighbor as yourself; I am ADONAI.

Blessings to you and yours. Be joyful in your prayer this week.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Kedoshim: Leviticus 19:1-20:27, Ezekiel 20:2-20, Matthew 5:33-37.G-d has commanded us to be holy … to be set apart and recognizable as such to the wider world. So how would anyone tell we are holy?One of the ways to show it is to keep our side of the street clean even if there is a personal cost.Yesterday a peer got, what felt to me like, an unexpected and undeserved spank from a superior related to an information inquiry I made to the superior. My first impulse was not to deal with it because it was potentially embarrassing and could also cause more trouble. But letting it go would have left me uncomfortable with all parties involved. So I made a point to ask my my peer about it so I could apologize and take corrective action with my superior as needed. As it turned out, my peer did not have a problem with it which left me feeling clear with all the relationships.We all know that words are cheap and actions speak louder than words.In this passage in Leviticus, G-d speaks almost exclusively about actions. The only time he speaks of feelings (Lev 19:17), I believe, is because nursing hatred rapidly leads to very bad actions. And nowhere does He talk about talk.So we see G-d listing many actions, some prohibited and some commanded, which define the actions of someone set apart.G-d clearly shows here and throughout the Bible that He cares deeply about those among us with physical, emotional, and spiritual problems and injuries. With the heart of G-d we will also show our concern for others through our actions.To live successfully as a life set apart, demands honesty in both word and deed. Dishonesty and misrepresentation lead to suspicion, mistrust, and hatred, ultimately destroying our relationships. This is why G-d views gossip and persistent negative talk about others so harshly.Our relationships grow and thrive only if we are willing to tell the truth; the only basis for trust between us. When there is honesty in our relationship, we can confidently look to others for help.I believe my role in life is to be of maximum service to G-d and to those around me. This requires that I be vigilant, available and willing.I hope we will all do what it takes to protect our relationships at TAJ and our relationships with all those whom we touch through a willingness to lovingly promote Biblical values and actions.As it says in Leviticus 19, 16 “‘Do not go around spreading slander among your people, but also don’t stand idly by when your neighbor’s life is at stake; I am ADONAI. 17 “‘Do not hate your brother in your heart, but rebuke your neighbor frankly, so that you won’t carry sin because of him. 18 Don’t take vengeance on or bear a grudge against any of your people; rather, love your neighbor as yourself; I am ADONAI.Blessings to you and yours. Be joyful in your prayer this week.I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

G-d has commanded us to be holy … to be set apart and recognizable as such to the wider world. So how would anyone tell we are holy?

One of the ways to show it is to keep our side of the street clean even if there is a personal cost.

Yesterday a peer got, what felt to me like, an unexpected and undeserved spank from a superior related to an information inquiry I made to the superior. My first impulse was not to deal with it because it was potentially embarrassing and could also cause more trouble. But letting it go would have left me uncomfortable with all parties involved.

So I made a point to ask my my peer about it so I could apologize and take corrective action with my superior as needed. As it turned out, my peer did not have a problem with it which left me feeling clear with all the relationships.

We all know that words are cheap and actions speak louder than words.

In this passage in Leviticus, G-d speaks almost exclusively about actions. The only time he speaks of feelings (Lev 19:17), I believe, is because nursing hatred rapidly leads to very bad actions. And nowhere does He talk about talk.

So we see G-d listing many actions, some prohibited and some commanded, which define the actions of someone set apart.

G-d clearly shows here and throughout the Bible that He cares deeply about those among us with physical, emotional, and spiritual problems and injuries. With the heart of G-d we will also show our concern for others through our actions.

To live successfully as a life set apart, demands honesty in both word and deed. Dishonesty and misrepresentation lead to suspicion, mistrust, and hatred, ultimately destroying our relationships. This is why G-d views gossip and persistent negative talk about others so harshly.

Our relationships grow and thrive only if we are willing to tell the truth; the only basis for trust between us. When there is honesty in our relationship, we can confidently look to others for help.

I believe my role in life is to be of maximum service to G-d and to those around me. This requires that I be vigilant, available and willing.

I hope we will all do what it takes to protect our relationships at TAJ and our relationships with all those whom we touch through a willingness to lovingly promote Biblical values and actions.

As it says in Leviticus 19, 16 “‘Do not go around spreading slander among your people, but also don’t stand idly by when your neighbor’s life is at stake; I am ADONAI. 17 “‘Do not hate your brother in your heart, but rebuke your neighbor frankly, so that you won’t carry sin because of him. 18 Don’t take vengeance on or bear a grudge against any of your people; rather, love your neighbor as yourself; I am ADONAI.

This parsha is about release from slavery, restoration and the greatness of our Master who is the object of our worship.

What a perfect picture of a powerful G-d before whom nothing is impossible and from which we can always expect the Fruits of the Spirit if we are but willing to humble ourselves before Him and be teachable.

Many of the people I know, including myself, have struggled with some compulsion that they wanted to stop doing, but could not.

The Ezekiel passage gives a very graphic description of a valley crammed full of dry, lifeless bones, fully beyond any hope of restoration or life. The context is about the return of the dispersed Israelite exiles, scattered among the nations, to the land of Israel, the reunification of the twelve tribes, and the unity generated from following one king, of one nation, and worshiping one G-d.

Just like the Israelites, our compulsions and disobedience grew progressively to dominate our life which became more and more unmanageable. Our compulsions always progressed, and it always eventually polluted those areas of our life that seemed higher functioning.

If you consider the scope of the story of Israel, you'll see that same progression and pattern repeated over and over with their relationships with one another and with G-d. Eventually G-d always needs to exercise “tough love” and set boundaries which force the Israelites out of the land before they will repent and He can then restore them to wholeness.

Through G-d’s power, if our compulsions eventually became manageable and our life improved, we first had to reach a “bottom” where we were utterly without hope of our life being different.

Our compulsions tend to either beat us into submission, making us teachable, or to kill us spiritually and physically. I know some who have died but many more who are being restored or have been restored to better than “factory” condition.

For those that were finally willing to be teachable and then recovered, it was from that place of “dry bones” that G-d was finally able to lead them out and up to a restored life and a restored relationship with Him.

Many may find this strange, but I consider such deep despair as almost a positive thing because I see it as an opportunity to help point the path back to the L-rd. It is an encouraging sign, like the first hint of light just before dawn, of an opportunity for a positive turning point in their compulsion towards healing. ... they may finally be willing to follow scriptural direction and to turn their life around.

And remember, many of the miracles that Yeshua performed were for people such as this who were utterly without hope.

Do you have an area in your life for which you have no hope of change and which needs the special touch of G-d and the support and wisdom of others? There are many at Temple that have been on your journey in the valley of dry bones and know how to navigate through your darkest tunnel. Reach out to them.

But prayer is the foundation for everything. It is one of the reasons that I start off my day with it and why I am glad I can be at Temple a little early to participate in the Ark of Prayer.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful as you deal with life on the shore in the tidal zone amongst the roaring waves.

Blessings to you and yours. Be joyful in your prayer this week.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,
This week’s parsha is Pesach: Exodus 33:12-34:36, Ezekiel 36:37-37-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
This parsha is about release from slavery, restoration and the greatness of our Master who is the object of our worship.
What a perfect picture of a powerful G-d before whom nothing is impossible and from which we can always expect the Fruits of the Spirit if we are but willing to humble ourselves before Him and be teachable.
Many of the people I know, including myself, have struggled with some compulsion that they wanted to stop doing, but could not.
The Ezekiel passage gives a very graphic description of a valley crammed full of dry, lifeless bones, fully beyond any hope of restoration or life. The context is about the return of the dispersed Israelite exiles, scattered among the nations, to the land of Israel, the reunification of the twelve tribes, and the unity generated from following one king, of one nation, and worshiping one G-d.
Just like the Israelites, our compulsions and disobedience grew progressively to dominate our life which became more and more unmanageable. Our compulsions always progressed, and it always eventually polluted those areas of our life that seemed higher functioning.
If you consider the scope of the story of Israel, you'll see that same progression and pattern repeated over and over with their relationships with one another and with G-d. Eventually G-d always needs to exercise “tough love” and set boundaries which force the Israelites out of the land before they will repent and He can then restore them to wholeness.
Through G-d’s power, if our compulsions eventually became manageable and our life improved, we first had to reach a “bottom” where we were utterly without hope of our life being different.Our compulsions tend to either beat us into submission, making us teachable, or to kill us spiritually and physically. I know some who have died but many more who are being restored or have been restored to better than “factory” condition.For those that were finally willing to be teachable and then recovered, it was from that place of “dry bones” that G-d was finally able to lead them out and up to a restored life and a restored relationship with Him. Many may find this strange, but I consider such deep despair as almost a positive thing because I see it as an opportunity to help point the path back to the L-rd. It is an encouraging sign, like the first hint of light just before dawn, of an opportunity for a positive turning point in their compulsion towards healing. ... they may finally be willing to follow scriptural direction and to turn their life around.
And remember, many of the miracles that Yeshua performed were for people such as this who were utterly without hope.
Do you have an area in your life for which you have no hope of change and which needs the special touch of G-d and the support and wisdom of others? There are many at Temple that have been on your journey in the valley of dry bones and know how to navigate through your darkest tunnel. Reach out to them.
But prayer is the foundation for everything. It is one of the reasons that I start off my day with it and why I am glad I can be at Temple a little early to participate in the Ark of Prayer.
I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful as you deal with life on the shore in the tidal zone amongst the roaring waves.
Blessings to you and yours. Be joyful in your prayer this week.
I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.
Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,
Kurt

This parsha is about release from slavery, restoration and the greatness of our Master who is the object of our worship.

What a perfect picture of a powerful G-d before whom nothing is impossible and from which we can always expect the Fruits of the Spirit if we are but willing to humble ourselves before Him and be teachable.

Many of the people I know, including myself, have struggled with some compulsion that they wanted to stop doing, but could not.

The Ezekiel passage gives a very graphic description of a valley crammed full of dry, lifeless bones, fully beyond any hope of restoration or life. The context is about the return of the dispersed Israelite exiles, scattered among the nations, to the land of Israel, the reunification of the twelve tribes, and the unity generated from following one king, of one nation, and worshiping one G-d.

Just like the Israelites, our compulsions and disobedience grew progressively to dominate our life which became more and more unmanageable. Our compulsions always progressed, and it always eventually polluted those areas of our life that seemed higher functioning.

If you consider the scope of the story of Israel, you'll see that same progression and pattern repeated over and over with their relationships with one another and with G-d. Eventually G-d always needs to exercise “tough love” and set boundaries which force the Israelites out of the land before they will repent and He can then restore them to wholeness.

Through G-d’s power, if our compulsions eventually became manageable and our life improved, we first had to reach a “bottom” where we were utterly without hope of our life being different.

Our compulsions tend to either beat us into submission, making us teachable, or to kill us spiritually and physically. I know some who have died but many more who are being restored or have been restored to better than “factory” condition.

For those that were finally willing to be teachable and then recovered, it was from that place of “dry bones” that G-d was finally able to lead them out and up to a restored life and a restored relationship with Him.

Many may find this strange, but I consider such deep despair as almost a positive thing because I see it as an opportunity to help point the path back to the L-rd. It is an encouraging sign, like the first hint of light just before dawn, of an opportunity for a positive turning point in their compulsion towards healing. ... they may finally be willing to follow scriptural direction and to turn their life around.

And remember, many of the miracles that Yeshua performed were for people such as this who were utterly without hope.

Do you have an area in your life for which you have no hope of change and which needs the special touch of G-d and the support and wisdom of others? There are many at Temple that have been on your journey in the valley of dry bones and know how to navigate through your darkest tunnel. Reach out to them.

But prayer is the foundation for everything. It is one of the reasons that I start off my day with it and why I am glad I can be at Temple a little early to participate in the Ark of Prayer.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful as you deal with life on the shore in the tidal zone amongst the roaring waves.

G-d speaks in the Torah about atonement for our sins, the importance, use and significance of blood and forbidden sexual practices.

Since the general topic is G-d’s direction about atonement, I’ve decided to take a step sideways and talk about conflict resolution between people and specifically within a community of faith like TAJ.

Typically I make a point to not listen to anyone complaining about other people unless they are speaking to me confidentially and actively looking for a way to resolve the conflict. If they are just complaining, I will usually cut them off and offer to help them resolve the conflict with that person.

If they are unwilling to resolve it but only want to complain (gossip) then our conversation ends with, “I’m sorry, I can see you are upset, but this is gossip which G-d describes as preventing us being in His presence for eternity. I can not listen to this anymore but please let me know if I can help you take steps to resolve this.”

Here is why I take such strong action and why I encourage you to do the same.

Conflict resolution in the body of Yeshua is crucial for several reasons. Avoidance of conflict, with no effort to resolve it, postpones a proper response and exacerbates the problem because conflicts that are allowed to fester unaddressed will always increase and have negative effects on relationships within the body.

The goal of conflict resolution is unity, and unity in the congregation poses a threat to the devil who will use every opportunity to take advantage of unresolved issues, especially those involving anger, bitterness, self-pity and envy. These emotions are the basis for most of our congregation conflicts.

There are two places in the B'rit Chadashah that clearly and unambiguously address conflict resolution where sin is involved. In Matthew 18:15-17, Yeshua gives the steps for dealing with a sinning brother.

“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.”

According to this passage, in the event of conflict involving overt sin, we are to,

1) address it one-on-one first, then

2) if still unresolved, it should be taken to a small group, and finally,

3) before the whole church if the problem still remains.

The other passage where this is addressed explicitly is Luke 17: 3-4. An essential part of conflict resolution, according to this passage, is forgiveness. Any kind of disciplinary procedure should always have restoration of the sinning person as the ultimate goal.

If the matter is relatively minor, it may be that the best thing to do is to overlook the offense if you can do so without resentment or anger (Proverbs 19:11). If it cannot be overlooked, one must pursue reconciliation.

This is such an important issue to G-d that peace with Him and peace with others are inextricably entwined. We cannot know peace with G-d unless we are at peace with one another, and we cannot truly know peace with others unless we are at peace with G-d.

But having a desire to follow G-d’s direction and make amends is not the same thing as knowing what to actually do.

One way to do this is to use the Seven A's, a process I have found helpful.

1. Address everyone involved at the same time (All those whom you affected)

2. Avoid if, but, and maybe (Do not try to excuse your wrongs)

3. Admit specifically (Both attitudes and actions)

4. Acknowledge the hurt (Express sorrow for hurting someone)

5. Accept the consequences (Such as making restitution)

6. Alter your behavior (Change your attitudes and actions)

7. Ask for forgiveness

See Matthew 7:3-5; 1 John 1:8-9; Proverbs 28:13.

But what about forgiveness on the recipients side (the one hurt)?

Forgiveness can not always happen immediately but must come at some point or we will become warped and remain unhealed.

Through forgiveness G-d tears down the walls that our sins have built, and He opens the way for a renewed relationship with Him. This is exactly what we must do if we are to forgive as the L-rd forgives us: We must release the person who has wronged us from the penalty of being separated from us. Therefore, forgiveness may be described as a decision to make four promises:

1. "I will not dwell on this incident."

2. "I will not bring up this incident again and use it against you."

3. "I will not talk to others about this incident."

4. "I will not let this incident stand between us or hinder our personal relationship."

By making and keeping these promises, you can tear down the walls that stand between you and your offender. You clear the way for your relationship to develop unhindered by memories of past wrongs. This is exactly what G-d does for us, and it is what he calls us to do for others.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your own spiritual journey as you deal with your own rough edges.

Blessings to you and yours.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

Many of my comments above are excerpted from the "Peacmakers", a bible based organization, that wants to encourage and assist Christians to respond to conflict biblically.

If you want to dive deeper than I was able to do in this short blog, see more at:

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Acharei Mot: Leviticus 16:1-18:30, Ezekiel 20:1-20, Hebrews 9:11-28G-d speaks in the Torah about atonement for our sins, the importance, use and significance of blood and forbidden sexual practices.Since the general topic is G-d’s direction about atonement, I’ve decided to take a step sideways and talk about conflict resolution between people and specifically within a community of faith like TAJ.Typically I make a point to not listen to anyone complaining about other people unless they are speaking to me confidentially and actively looking for a way to resolve the conflict. If they are just complaining, I will usually cut them off and offer to help them resolve the conflict with that person. If they are unwilling to resolve it but only want to complain (gossip) then our conversation ends with, “I’m sorry, I can see you are upset, but this is gossip which G-d describes as preventing us being in His presence for eternity. I can not listen to this anymore but please let me know if I can help you take steps to resolve this.”Here is why I take such strong action and why I encourage you to do the same.Conflict resolution in the body of Yeshua is crucial for several reasons. Avoidance of conflict, with no effort to resolve it, postpones a proper response and exacerbates the problem because conflicts that are allowed to fester unaddressed will always increase and have negative effects on relationships within the body. The goal of conflict resolution is unity, and unity in the congregation poses a threat to the devil who will use every opportunity to take advantage of unresolved issues, especially those involving anger, bitterness, self-pity and envy. These emotions are the basis for most of our congregation conflicts.There are two places in the B'rit Chadashah that clearly and unambiguously address conflict resolution where sin is involved. In Matthew 18:15-17, Yeshua gives the steps for dealing with a sinning brother. “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.”According to this passage, in the event of conflict involving overt sin, we are to, 1) address it one-on-one first, then2) if still unresolved, it should be taken to a small group, and finally, 3) before the whole church if the problem still remains.The other passage where this is addressed explicitly is Luke 17: 3-4. An essential part of conflict resolution, according to this passage, is forgiveness. Any kind of disciplinary procedure should always have restoration of the sinning person as the ultimate goal.If the matter is relatively minor, it may be that the best thing to do is to overlook the offense if you can do so without resentment or anger (Proverbs 19:11). If it cannot be overlooked, one must pursue reconciliation. This is such an important issue to G-d that peace with Him and peace with others are inextricably entwined. We cannot know peace with G-d unless we are at peace with one another, and we cannot truly know peace with others unless we are at peace with G-d.But having a desire to follow G-d’s direction and make amends is not the same thing as knowing what to actually do. One way to do this is to use the Seven A's, a process I have found helpful.1. Address everyone involved at the same time (All those whom you affected)2. Avoid if, but, and maybe (Do not try to excuse your wrongs)3. Admit specifically (Both attitudes and actions)4. Acknowledge the hurt (Express sorrow for hurting someone)5. Accept the consequences (Such as making restitution)6. AlterTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

G-d speaks in the Torah about atonement for our sins, the importance, use and significance of blood and forbidden sexual practices.

Since the general topic is G-d’s direction about atonement, I’ve decided to take a step sideways and talk about conflict resolution between people and specifically within a community of faith like TAJ.

Typically I make a point to not listen to anyone complaining about other people unless they are speaking to me confidentially and actively looking for a way to resolve the conflict. If they are just complaining, I will usually cut them off and offer to help them resolve the conflict with that person.

If they are unwilling to resolve it but only want to complain (gossip) then our conversation ends with, “I’m sorry, I can see you are upset, but this is gossip which G-d describes as preventing us being in His presence for eternity. I can not listen to this anymore but please let me know if I can help you take steps to resolve this.”

Here is why I take such strong action and why I encourage you to do the same.

Conflict resolution in the body of Yeshua is crucial for several reasons. Avoidance of conflict, with no effort to resolve it, postpones a proper response and exacerbates the problem because conflicts that are allowed to fester unaddressed will always increase and have negative effects on relationships within the body.

The goal of conflict resolution is unity, and unity in the congregation poses a threat to the devil who will use every opportunity to take advantage of unresolved issues, especially those involving anger, bitterness, self-pity and envy. These emotions are the basis for most of our congregation conflicts.

There are two places in the B'rit Chadashah that clearly and unambiguously address conflict resolution where sin is involved. In Matthew 18:15-17, Yeshua gives the steps for dealing with a sinning brother.

“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.”

According to this passage, in the event of conflict involving overt sin, we are to,

1) address it one-on-one first, then

2) if still unresolved, it should be taken to a small group, and finally,

3) before the whole church if the problem still remains.

The other passage where this is addressed explicitly is Luke 17: 3-4. An essential part of conflict resolution, according to this passage, is forgiveness. Any kind of disciplinary procedure should always have restoration of the sinning person as the ultimate goal.

If the matter is relatively minor, it may be that the best thing to do is to overlook the offense if you can do so without resentment or anger (Proverbs 19:11). If it cannot be overlooked, one must pursue reconciliation.

This is such an important issue to G-d that peace with Him and peace with others are inextricably entwined. We cannot know peace with G-d unless we are at peace with one another, and we cannot truly know peace with others unless we are at peace with G-d.

But having a desire to follow G-d’s direction and make amends is not the same thing as knowing what to actually do.

One way to do this is to use the Seven A's, a process I have found helpful.

1. Address everyone involved at the same time (All those whom you affected)

2. Avoid if, but, and maybe (Do not try to excuse your wrongs)

3. Admit specifically (Both attitudes and actions)

4. Acknowledge the hurt (Express sorrow for hurting someone)

5. Accept the consequences (Such as making restitution)

6. Alter your behavior (Change your attitudes and actions)

7. Ask for forgiveness

See Matthew 7:3-5; 1 John 1:8-9; Proverbs 28:13.

But what about forgiveness on the recipients side (the one hurt)?

Forgiveness can not always happen immediately but must come at some point or we will become warped and remain unhealed.

Through forgiveness G-d tears down the walls that our sins have built, and He opens the way for a renewed relationship with Him. This is exactly what we must do if we are to forgive as the L-rd forgives us: We must release the person who has wronged us from the penalty of being separated from us. Therefore, forgiveness may be described as a decision to make four promises:

1. "I will not dwell on this incident."

2. "I will not bring up this incident again and use it against you."

3. "I will not talk to others about this incident."

4. "I will not let this incident stand between us or hinder our personal relationship."

By making and keeping these promises, you can tear down the walls that stand between you and your offender. You clear the way for your relationship to develop unhindered by memories of past wrongs. This is exactly what G-d does for us, and it is what he calls us to do for others.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your own spiritual journey as you deal with your own rough edges.

Blessings to you and yours.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

Many of my comments above are excerpted from the "Peacmakers", a bible based organization, that wants to encourage and assist Christians to respond to conflict biblically.

If you want to dive deeper than I was able to do in this short blog, see more at:

In 2 Kings we see a city in Samaria under siege by the Arameans and famine is everywhere. Four lepers outside at the city gates are without hope of survival because they know that either inside or outside the city they will starve to death.

So they decide to surrender to the Arameans, who they know have lots of food, in the hope that the Arameans will feed them. They also know that there is a risk that they will be executed, but even if that turns out to be the case, they know that they will be no worse off than their current situation.

Recovery from our compulsions and character defects as well as our relationship to G-d is like that.

When combating serious compulsions and character defects, my observation and experience, is that few will choose the risk and pain of change unless they acknowledge that their life is unmanageable and they are without hope of effecting a change using their own resources. This was the state that the lepers were in BEFORE they decided to surrender to the Arameans.

But the lepers observed a solution; the Arameans had the resources to sustain life. So now they had hope which they put in the Arameans by making a decision to surrender to them.

This is like seeing someone who had a life that was unmanageable and was without hope, but now obviously has not only hope but a life full of grace, peace and the fruits of the Spirit. Observing such a life, one can become willing to take a chance that perhaps here, there is a possibility of help.

When they found the Arameans were gone, due to G-d’s agency, they eat and take some of the plunder for themselves. Then they realize, once they are sated, that it is important to share the good news with their fellows without delay.

Do you remember when you first got your G-d sized hole filled by Yeshua and you were so excited about it that you wanted to tell everyone you knew about what you discovered? We see this reaction with the lepers, outcasts from the community who certainly could have been bitter towards their fellows, as well as with people who have progressed towards wholeness.

Notice that G-d is working in the background un-noticed by most but in fact the point of the story seems to be to show the power and grace of G-d.

Many who stand on the brink of recovery never progress, because as much as they desire victory, they believe it is impossible. The officer of Israel tragically missed his opportunity for victory and freedom because of his unbelief.

The obstacles to recovery and healing are never too great for G-d, But if we fail to believe this, we may be destroyed by the obstacles that G-d could have easily removed. Imagine if the lepers had never decided to surrender to the Arameans; they would never have known what G-d had already done and would never have been able to help their fellows.

By looking to G-d for help, and placing our life in his hands, we can enjoy victorious blessings beyond our wildest dreams, in our marriages, our work and in all things.

Perhaps I am crazy, but, although I would rather not have trials and tribulations in my life, if I had to choose, I would rather have the “Peace that surpasses all understanding” during trials than not to have trials. I’d rather have the sharpness and character that comes from passing through difficult times and my G-d connectedness that is developed during those times.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your own spiritual journey and in dealing with any hurts, habits and hang-ups you may have.

Blessings to you and yours.

I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,This week’s parsha is Metzora, Leviticus 14:1-15:33, 2 Kings 7:3-20, Matthew 7:3:20In 2 Kings we see a city in Samaria under siege by the Arameans and famine is everywhere. Four lepers outside at the city gates are without hope of survival because they know that either inside or outside the city they will starve to death.So they decide to surrender to the Arameans, who they know have lots of food, in the hope that the Arameans will feed them. They also know that there is a risk that they will be executed, but even if that turns out to be the case, they know that they will be no worse off than their current situation.Recovery from our compulsions and character defects as well as our relationship to G-d is like that.When combating serious compulsions and character defects, my observation and experience, is that few will choose the risk and pain of change unless they acknowledge that their life is unmanageable and they are without hope of effecting a change using their own resources. This was the state that the lepers were in BEFORE they decided to surrender to the Arameans.But the lepers observed a solution; the Arameans had the resources to sustain life. So now they had hope which they put in the Arameans by making a decision to surrender to them.This is like seeing someone who had a life that was unmanageable and was without hope, but now obviously has not only hope but a life full of grace, peace and the fruits of the Spirit. Observing such a life, one can become willing to take a chance that perhaps here, there is a possibility of help.When they found the Arameans were gone, due to G-d’s agency, they eat and take some of the plunder for themselves. Then they realize, once they are sated, that it is important to share the good news with their fellows without delay.Do you remember when you first got your G-d sized hole filled by Yeshua and you were so excited about it that you wanted to tell everyone you knew about what you discovered? We see this reaction with the lepers, outcasts from the community who certainly could have been bitter towards their fellows, as well as with people who have progressed towards wholeness.Notice that G-d is working in the background un-noticed by most but in fact the point of the story seems to be to show the power and grace of G-d.Many who stand on the brink of recovery never progress, because as much as they desire victory, they believe it is impossible. The officer of Israel tragically missed his opportunity for victory and freedom because of his unbelief.The obstacles to recovery and healing are never too great for G-d, But if we fail to believe this, we may be destroyed by the obstacles that G-d could have easily removed. Imagine if the lepers had never decided to surrender to the Arameans; they would never have known what G-d had already done and would never have been able to help their fellows.By looking to G-d for help, and placing our life in his hands, we can enjoy victorious blessings beyond our wildest dreams, in our marriages, our work and in all things.Perhaps I am crazy, but, although I would rather not have trials and tribulations in my life, if I had to choose, I would rather have the “Peace that surpasses all understanding” during trials than not to have trials. I’d rather have the sharpness and character that comes from passing through difficult times and my G-d connectedness that is developed during those times.I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your own spiritual journey and in dealing with any hurts, habits and hang-ups you may have.Blessings to you and yours.I hope to see you at our Shabbat prayer session this weekend.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,KurtTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

In 2 Kings we see a city in Samaria under siege by the Arameans and famine is everywhere. Four lepers outside at the city gates are without hope of survival because they know that either inside or outside the city they will starve to death.

So they decide to surrender to the Arameans, who they know have lots of food, in the hope that the Arameans will feed them. They also know that there is a risk that they will be executed, but even if that turns out to be the case, they know that they will be no worse off than their current situation.

Recovery from our compulsions and character defects as well as our relationship to G-d is like that.

When combating serious compulsions and character defects, my observation and experience, is that few will choose the risk and pain of change unless they acknowledge that their life is unmanageable and they are without hope of effecting a change using their own resources. This was the state that the lepers were in BEFORE they decided to surrender to the Arameans.

But the lepers observed a solution; the Arameans had the resources to sustain life. So now they had hope which they put in the Arameans by making a decision to surrender to them.

This is like seeing someone who had a life that was unmanageable and was without hope, but now obviously has not only hope but a life full of grace, peace and the fruits of the Spirit. Observing such a life, one can become willing to take a chance that perhaps here, there is a possibility of help.

When they found the Arameans were gone, due to G-d’s agency, they eat and take some of the plunder for themselves. Then they realize, once they are sated, that it is important to share the good news with their fellows without delay.

Do you remember when you first got your G-d sized hole filled by Yeshua and you were so excited about it that you wanted to tell everyone you knew about what you discovered? We see this reaction with the lepers, outcasts from the community who certainly could have been bitter towards their fellows, as well as with people who have progressed towards wholeness.

Notice that G-d is working in the background un-noticed by most but in fact the point of the story seems to be to show the power and grace of G-d.

Many who stand on the brink of recovery never progress, because as much as they desire victory, they believe it is impossible. The officer of Israel tragically missed his opportunity for victory and freedom because of his unbelief.

The obstacles to recovery and healing are never too great for G-d, But if we fail to believe this, we may be destroyed by the obstacles that G-d could have easily removed. Imagine if the lepers had never decided to surrender to the Arameans; they would never have known what G-d had already done and would never have been able to help their fellows.

By looking to G-d for help, and placing our life in his hands, we can enjoy victorious blessings beyond our wildest dreams, in our marriages, our work and in all things.

Perhaps I am crazy, but, although I would rather not have trials and tribulations in my life, if I had to choose, I would rather have the “Peace that surpasses all understanding” during trials than not to have trials. I’d rather have the sharpness and character that comes from passing through difficult times and my G-d connectedness that is developed during those times.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your own spiritual journey and in dealing with any hurts, habits and hang-ups you may have.

Earlier this week I lost 111 days of food abstinence by eating a small fourth meal at night because I felt entitled. I felt entitled not to feel my feelings like hunger, uncomfortableness and irritation at a day filled with technology problems and lost work production.

I felt entitled to assuage my feelings by relying on my own understanding and resources, which led me into the need for recovery in the first place. And I did not rely on what I had been taught as I worked my food recovery program. I had slacked off of the activities that I do that keep me spiritually fit and as a result was not sufficiently close to G-d to have avoided my wrong choices.

This is what we see this week in the Haftorah in 2 Kings 4:42-5:19.

Here we see Naaman, who has leprosy, an always gruesomely fatal disease in his day, a mighty warrior and general, a wealthy man admired by his King.

Naaman is a man that is used to getting his way in everything. There are no lines at the checkout counter for him.

So he shows up at the doorstep of Elisha, the prophet of G-d, looking to buy a cure with his gold, silver and prestige. He even expects the King of Israel and Elisha to ignore the fact that Naaman has been attacking Israel and help him, their enemy, anyway.

Elisha loves G-d and for the opportunity to introduce Naaman to his L-rd, he is willing to ask G-d to heal Naaman. But Elisha does not go out to speak to Naaman, thus slighting him, and worse tells Naaman to wash in a local river to be healed, a ridicules “prescription” even in the day of Naaman.

Naaman has not sought the L-rd for help or acknowledged His role in his military victories, has not acknowledged his own powerless to cure his leprosy or acknowledged that his life is ultimately unmanageable due to his impending death. This leaves Naaman angry when he did not get what he expected as his due, so he storms away.

But we see something interesting. His officers, who must have cared for Naaman to risk his wrath, reason with him to reconsider Elisha’s instructions. As a result, Naaman is ultimately healed and becomes a follower of G-d.

But imagine the outcome if Naaman had no one around him or if Naaman remained savagely belligerent and ultimately unteachable. He would have died and not known the L-ord.

Having a cloud of people around me who care enough about me to call me, in a lovingly appropriate way, on my stuff is important. My relationships help keep me teachable and is central to my recovery and to my life at Temple. I will miss the fruits of the Spirit if I approach my life, and especially my relationship with G-d, in isolation.

So when I slipped earlier this week, I was able to talk to my sponsor, who, without judgment or inappropriate emotion, was able to help me refocus my activities to more solidly connect with G-d. And I am abstinent again with no gap between my poor choices and my restarted abstinence.

The love and spiritual growth we experience at TAJ comes from a solid acknowledgement and adherence to scriptural boundaries, a willingness to not be judgmental but to be kind and helpful to everyone.

To maintain my food recovery and my relationship with G-d, I need a belief in Yeshua’s power, willingness to do as Yeshua and my sponsor direct, honesty, humility, and destruction of self-centeredness through service to others. My spiritual life and G-d connectedness is enlarged through work and self-sacrifice to others.

But fear, like Naaman’s fear of looking foolish, cuts me off from everyone and from G-d. The more I rely on G-d, the more serene and peaceful I am. To have a manageable life, I must make continuous progress perfecting my G-d given ideals but I am not required to be perfect. As I grow spiritually, I will become more humble, tolerant, patient, and able to show good will and love to everyone.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your own spiritual journey and any hurts, habits and hangups you may have.

Blessings to you and yours.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,Earlier this week I lost 111 days of food abstinence by eating a small fourth meal at night because I felt entitled. I felt entitled not to feel my feelings like hunger, uncomfortableness and irritation at a day filled with technology problems and lost work production.
I felt entitled to assuage my feelings by relying on my own understanding and resources, which led me into the need for recovery in the first place. And I did not rely on what I had been taught as I worked my food recovery program. I had slacked off of the activities that I do that keep me spiritually fit and as a result was not sufficiently close to G-d to have avoided my wrong choices.
This is what we see this week in the Haftorah in 2 Kings 4:42-5:19.
Here we see Naaman, who has leprosy, an always gruesomely fatal disease in his day, a mighty warrior and general, a wealthy man admired by his King.
Naaman is a man that is used to getting his way in everything. There are no lines at the checkout counter for him.
So he shows up at the doorstep of Elisha, the prophet of G-d, looking to buy a cure with his gold, silver and prestige. He even expects the King of Israel and Elisha to ignore the fact that Naaman has been attacking Israel and help him, their enemy, anyway.
Elisha loves G-d and for the opportunity to introduce Naaman to his L-rd, he is willing to ask G-d to heal Naaman. But Elisha does not go out to speak to Naaman, thus slighting him, and worse tells Naaman to wash in a local river to be healed, a ridicules “prescription” even in the day of Naaman.
Naaman has not sought the L-rd for help or acknowledged His role in his military victories, has not acknowledged his own powerless to cure his leprosy or acknowledged that his life is ultimately unmanageable due to his impending death. This leaves Naaman angry when he did not get what he expected as his due, so he storms away.
But we see something interesting. His officers, who must have cared for Naaman to risk his wrath, reason with him to reconsider Elisha’s instructions. As a result, Naaman is ultimately healed and becomes a follower of G-d.
But imagine the outcome if Naaman had no one around him or if Naaman remained savagely belligerent and ultimately unteachable. He would have died and not known the L-ord.
Having a cloud of people around me who care enough about me to call me, in a lovingly appropriate way, on my stuff is important. My relationships help keep me teachable and is central to my recovery and to my life at Temple. I will miss the fruits of the Spirit if I approach my life, and especially my relationship with G-d, in isolation.
So when I slipped earlier this week, I was able to talk to my sponsor, who, without judgment or inappropriate emotion, was able to help me refocus my activities to more solidly connect with G-d. And I am abstinent again with no gap between my poor choices and my restarted abstinence.
The love and spiritual growth we experience at TAJ comes from a solid acknowledgement and adherence to scriptural boundaries, a willingness to not be judgmental but to be kind and helpful to everyone.
To maintain my food recovery and my relationship with G-d, I need a belief in Yeshua’s power, willingness to do as Yeshua and my sponsor direct, honesty, humility, and destruction of self-centeredness through service to others. My spiritual life and G-d connectedness is enlarged through work and self-sacrifice to others.
But fear, like Naaman’s fear of looking foolish, cuts me off from everyone and from G-d. The more I rely on G-d, the more serene and peaceful I am. To have a manageable life, I must make continuous progress perfecting my G-d given ideals but I am not required to be perfect. As I grow spiritually, I will become more humble, tolerant, patient, and able to show good will and love to everyone.
I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your ownTo our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Earlier this week I lost 111 days of food abstinence by eating a small fourth meal at night because I felt entitled. I felt entitled not to feel my feelings like hunger, uncomfortableness and irritation at a day filled with technology problems and lost work production.

I felt entitled to assuage my feelings by relying on my own understanding and resources, which led me into the need for recovery in the first place. And I did not rely on what I had been taught as I worked my food recovery program. I had slacked off of the activities that I do that keep me spiritually fit and as a result was not sufficiently close to G-d to have avoided my wrong choices.

This is what we see this week in the Haftorah in 2 Kings 4:42-5:19.

Here we see Naaman, who has leprosy, an always gruesomely fatal disease in his day, a mighty warrior and general, a wealthy man admired by his King.

Naaman is a man that is used to getting his way in everything. There are no lines at the checkout counter for him.

So he shows up at the doorstep of Elisha, the prophet of G-d, looking to buy a cure with his gold, silver and prestige. He even expects the King of Israel and Elisha to ignore the fact that Naaman has been attacking Israel and help him, their enemy, anyway.

Elisha loves G-d and for the opportunity to introduce Naaman to his L-rd, he is willing to ask G-d to heal Naaman. But Elisha does not go out to speak to Naaman, thus slighting him, and worse tells Naaman to wash in a local river to be healed, a ridicules “prescription” even in the day of Naaman.

Naaman has not sought the L-rd for help or acknowledged His role in his military victories, has not acknowledged his own powerless to cure his leprosy or acknowledged that his life is ultimately unmanageable due to his impending death. This leaves Naaman angry when he did not get what he expected as his due, so he storms away.

But we see something interesting. His officers, who must have cared for Naaman to risk his wrath, reason with him to reconsider Elisha’s instructions. As a result, Naaman is ultimately healed and becomes a follower of G-d.

But imagine the outcome if Naaman had no one around him or if Naaman remained savagely belligerent and ultimately unteachable. He would have died and not known the L-ord.

Having a cloud of people around me who care enough about me to call me, in a lovingly appropriate way, on my stuff is important. My relationships help keep me teachable and is central to my recovery and to my life at Temple. I will miss the fruits of the Spirit if I approach my life, and especially my relationship with G-d, in isolation.

So when I slipped earlier this week, I was able to talk to my sponsor, who, without judgment or inappropriate emotion, was able to help me refocus my activities to more solidly connect with G-d. And I am abstinent again with no gap between my poor choices and my restarted abstinence.

The love and spiritual growth we experience at TAJ comes from a solid acknowledgement and adherence to scriptural boundaries, a willingness to not be judgmental but to be kind and helpful to everyone.

To maintain my food recovery and my relationship with G-d, I need a belief in Yeshua’s power, willingness to do as Yeshua and my sponsor direct, honesty, humility, and destruction of self-centeredness through service to others. My spiritual life and G-d connectedness is enlarged through work and self-sacrifice to others.

But fear, like Naaman’s fear of looking foolish, cuts me off from everyone and from G-d. The more I rely on G-d, the more serene and peaceful I am. To have a manageable life, I must make continuous progress perfecting my G-d given ideals but I am not required to be perfect. As I grow spiritually, I will become more humble, tolerant, patient, and able to show good will and love to everyone.

I hope you find my musings this week thought provoking and helpful on your own spiritual journey and any hurts, habits and hangups you may have.

The account of Aaron’s sacrifices reflects the actual order in which the various sacrifices were offered to G-d by an individual. It also reflects the high level order of steps that are required to have a growing relationship with G-d and our loved ones.

A.The sin offering was first, showing the priority of confession and cleansing from sin before G-d.

B. Followed by the burnt or grain offering which represented the worshiper’s obedience in giving his or her life to G-d.

C. And completed by the peace offering which was an expression of gratitude for a continuing walk with G-d.

The order of the sacrifices is also the necessary order to restore relationships between people and supports the process of sanctification, which are primary themes of the Bible.

Lev 10:8-11

Notice that Aaron was first told how to act, and then was told how to teach. This illustrates an important principle: Actions speak louder than words.

G-d calls us to live in a way that will, by example, reinforce what we teach to others. This is also why, even when there is no sin involved, appearances in our relationships and actions are important as well.

2 Samuel: 6

King David was bringing the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem but failed to follow G-d’s specific instructions for transporting it. There were serious consequences for failing to honor G-d by not knowing and not following G-d’s instructions. (The Ark was captured by enemies, Uzzah was killed, David became angry and afraid thus cutting off G-d’s power in the kingdom and his life, his marriage to Michal was in trouble)

We are responsible for knowing what G-d desires of us; such knowledge will enable us to act according to his will. The Bible is our primary source for discovering God’s plan for healthy living.

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,Lev 9:8-24The account of Aaron’s sacrifices reflects the actual order in which the various sacrifices were offered to G-d by an individual. It also reflects the high level order of steps that are required to have a growing relationship with G-d and our loved ones.
A. The sin offering was first, showing the priority of confession and cleansing from sin before G-d.B. Followed by the burnt or grain offering which represented the worshiper’s obedience in giving his or her life to G-d.
C. And completed by the peace offering which was an expression of gratitude for a continuing walk with G-d.
The order of the sacrifices is also the necessary order to restore relationships between people and supports the process of sanctification, which are primary themes of the Bible.Lev 10:8-11Notice that Aaron was first told how to act, and then was told how to teach. This illustrates an important principle: Actions speak louder than words.
G-d calls us to live in a way that will, by example, reinforce what we teach to others. This is also why, even when there is no sin involved, appearances in our relationships and actions are important as well.2 Samuel: 6King David was bringing the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem but failed to follow G-d’s specific instructions for transporting it. There were serious consequences for failing to honor G-d by not knowing and not following G-d’s instructions. (The Ark was captured by enemies, Uzzah was killed, David became angry and afraid thus cutting off G-d’s power in the kingdom and his life, his marriage to Michal was in trouble)
We are responsible for knowing what G-d desires of us; such knowledge will enable us to act according to his will. The Bible is our primary source for discovering God’s plan for healthy living.How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,Kurt
To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Lev 9:8-24

The account of Aaron’s sacrifices reflects the actual order in which the various sacrifices were offered to G-d by an individual. It also reflects the high level order of steps that are required to have a growing relationship with G-d and our loved ones.

A.The sin offering was first, showing the priority of confession and cleansing from sin before G-d.

B. Followed by the burnt or grain offering which represented the worshiper’s obedience in giving his or her life to G-d.

C. And completed by the peace offering which was an expression of gratitude for a continuing walk with G-d.

The order of the sacrifices is also the necessary order to restore relationships between people and supports the process of sanctification, which are primary themes of the Bible.

Lev 10:8-11

Notice that Aaron was first told how to act, and then was told how to teach. This illustrates an important principle: Actions speak louder than words.

G-d calls us to live in a way that will, by example, reinforce what we teach to others. This is also why, even when there is no sin involved, appearances in our relationships and actions are important as well.

2 Samuel: 6

King David was bringing the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem but failed to follow G-d’s specific instructions for transporting it. There were serious consequences for failing to honor G-d by not knowing and not following G-d’s instructions. (The Ark was captured by enemies, Uzzah was killed, David became angry and afraid thus cutting off G-d’s power in the kingdom and his life, his marriage to Michal was in trouble)

We are responsible for knowing what G-d desires of us; such knowledge will enable us to act according to his will. The Bible is our primary source for discovering God’s plan for healthy living.

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.

Tzav means “Command.” It expresses a command from G‑d about the donation of offerings in the Sanctuary, relating to the general concept of giving charity. But Tzav has also another meaning: “Connect.” It expresses the idea that G‑d’s laws establish a connection between the individual and G‑d.

Considering our relationships / connections at TAJ or in our homes, for a broken relationship to be restored / reconnected it requires actions from both parties, the offender and the offended.

Restoration requires that the offender repent. True repentance requires the offender to a) recognize the harm they have caused, b) commit to not causing that harm again, and c) do what is necessary to make amends to the one they harmed by attempting to make restitution or in some way repair the harm.

For the offended, it requires forgiving the offender. True forgiveness means not bringing up the offense at a later time as a weapon and no longer feeling angry or violated.

Restoration also often requires time to rebuild trust between the parties. Although repentance and forgiveness must come first, the offended often needs to gage the truthfulness and strength of the offender’s desire to not cause that or other harm in the future. Trust can typically only be built with time and experience.

The process that G-d lays out in the parsha, describes part of the process that the offender needs to follow to make amends to G-d, the offended.

G-d’s hand is seen everywhere. Step 8 of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous says, “We made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.”

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,
Tzav means “Command.” It expresses a command from G‑d about the donation of offerings in the Sanctuary, relating to the general concept of giving charity. But Tzav has also another meaning: “Connect.” It expresses the idea that G‑d’s laws establish a connection between the individual and G‑d.
Considering our relationships / connections at TAJ or in our homes, for a broken relationship to be restored / reconnected it requires actions from both parties, the offender and the offended.
Restoration requires that the offender repent. True repentance requires the offender to a) recognize the harm they have caused, b) commit to not causing that harm again, and c) do what is necessary to make amends to the one they harmed by attempting to make restitution or in some way repair the harm.
For the offended, it requires forgiving the offender. True forgiveness means not bringing up the offense at a later time as a weapon and no longer feeling angry or violated.
Restoration also often requires time to rebuild trust between the parties. Although repentance and forgiveness must come first, the offended often needs to gage the truthfulness and strength of the offender’s desire to not cause that or other harm in the future. Trust can typically only be built with time and experience.
The process that G-d lays out in the parsha, describes part of the process that the offender needs to follow to make amends to G-d, the offended.
G-d’s hand is seen everywhere. Step 8 of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous says, “We made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.”
How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?
I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.
Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,
Kurt

To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Tzav means “Command.” It expresses a command from G‑d about the donation of offerings in the Sanctuary, relating to the general concept of giving charity. But Tzav has also another meaning: “Connect.” It expresses the idea that G‑d’s laws establish a connection between the individual and G‑d.

Considering our relationships / connections at TAJ or in our homes, for a broken relationship to be restored / reconnected it requires actions from both parties, the offender and the offended.

Restoration requires that the offender repent. True repentance requires the offender to a) recognize the harm they have caused, b) commit to not causing that harm again, and c) do what is necessary to make amends to the one they harmed by attempting to make restitution or in some way repair the harm.

For the offended, it requires forgiving the offender. True forgiveness means not bringing up the offense at a later time as a weapon and no longer feeling angry or violated.

Restoration also often requires time to rebuild trust between the parties. Although repentance and forgiveness must come first, the offended often needs to gage the truthfulness and strength of the offender’s desire to not cause that or other harm in the future. Trust can typically only be built with time and experience.

The process that G-d lays out in the parsha, describes part of the process that the offender needs to follow to make amends to G-d, the offended.

G-d’s hand is seen everywhere. Step 8 of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous says, “We made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.”

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.

1) The cost of the tabernacle project was huge. The gold, silver and bronze, at today’s prices (cheaper today relative to income than to income then), was about $48.7 million. Plus the cost of the linen, skins, precious stones and labor probably added at least another $10 million. Clearly, at least at this moment, Israel was trusting G-d with their future and their current resources. They were committed to G-d for all the details of the tabernacle project.

2) The Israelites recorded the what, when, how and who in great detail. I believe that this was because they wanted to confirm to G-d and to themselves that they understood exactly what G-d required of them.

I have found that writing things down helps me enormously. Part of what I do to work my food related recovery is the read the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous as the book has a lot of wisdom about obsessions of the mind and allergies of the body across all compulsions.

Although I am an avid underliner, I find that unless I go back and review my underlines and journal about them, I miss a lot. This slows down my recovery. I have also found that a dream for some change or happening in my life remains a wish and unfulfilled until I write it down and break it into action steps. So writing things down is often the difference between success and failure.

3) The tabernacle project details were not perfectionism or obsessive compulsive but a careful melding of faith, personal and congregational commitment to G-d, and perseverance as they worked to complete the task G-d set before them.

4) Their and my success depends on clearly knowing G-d’s plan and persevering as I and they follow it. When I understand and am actively following the plan G-d has for me, I find that it brings me serenity and clarity about my day to day activities and priorities because it leaves the results to G-d. So I know that however it turns out, it is what G-d intended. All I have to do is suit up and show up and do my best.

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,The parsha this week is Pekudei, Exodus 38:21 – 40:38, 1 Kings 7:40-50, Revelation 15:5-8Here is what I noticed:1) The cost of the tabernacle project was huge. The gold, silver and bronze, at today’s prices (cheaper today relative to income than to income then), was about $48.7 million. Plus the cost of the linen, skins, precious stones and labor probably added at least another $10 million. Clearly, at least at this moment, Israel was trusting G-d with their future and their current resources. They were committed to G-d for all the details of the tabernacle project.
2) The Israelites recorded the what, when, how and who in great detail. I believe that this was because they wanted to confirm to G-d and to themselves that they understood exactly what G-d required of them.I have found that writing things down helps me enormously. Part of what I do to work my food related recovery is the read the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous as the book has a lot of wisdom about obsessions of the mind and allergies of the body across all compulsions.Although I am an avid underliner, I find that unless I go back and review my underlines and journal about them, I miss a lot. This slows down my recovery. I have also found that a dream for some change or happening in my life remains a wish and unfulfilled until I write it down and break it into action steps. So writing things down is often the difference between success and failure.3) The tabernacle project details were not perfectionism or obsessive compulsive but a careful melding of faith, personal and congregational commitment to G-d, and perseverance as they worked to complete the task G-d set before them.4) Their and my success depends on clearly knowing G-d’s plan and persevering as I and they follow it. When I understand and am actively following the plan G-d has for me, I find that it brings me serenity and clarity about my day to day activities and priorities because it leaves the results to G-d. So I know that however it turns out, it is what G-d intended. All I have to do is suit up and show up and do my best.How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,Kurt
To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

1) The cost of the tabernacle project was huge. The gold, silver and bronze, at today’s prices (cheaper today relative to income than to income then), was about $48.7 million. Plus the cost of the linen, skins, precious stones and labor probably added at least another $10 million. Clearly, at least at this moment, Israel was trusting G-d with their future and their current resources. They were committed to G-d for all the details of the tabernacle project.

2) The Israelites recorded the what, when, how and who in great detail. I believe that this was because they wanted to confirm to G-d and to themselves that they understood exactly what G-d required of them.

I have found that writing things down helps me enormously. Part of what I do to work my food related recovery is the read the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous as the book has a lot of wisdom about obsessions of the mind and allergies of the body across all compulsions.

Although I am an avid underliner, I find that unless I go back and review my underlines and journal about them, I miss a lot. This slows down my recovery. I have also found that a dream for some change or happening in my life remains a wish and unfulfilled until I write it down and break it into action steps. So writing things down is often the difference between success and failure.

3) The tabernacle project details were not perfectionism or obsessive compulsive but a careful melding of faith, personal and congregational commitment to G-d, and perseverance as they worked to complete the task G-d set before them.

4) Their and my success depends on clearly knowing G-d’s plan and persevering as I and they follow it. When I understand and am actively following the plan G-d has for me, I find that it brings me serenity and clarity about my day to day activities and priorities because it leaves the results to G-d. So I know that however it turns out, it is what G-d intended. All I have to do is suit up and show up and do my best.

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.

Amongst the lengthy list of supplies and construction directions for building the Tabernacle and related items and garments, this is what I noticed:

1) All whose hearts and spirits were stirred by Moses and the L-rd, joyfully and willingly participated, as they were able, in this shared project that was ordained and directed by their Master. (Ex 35:20-22)

2) It is an important part of a project ordained and directed by G-d to teach others how to participate and share in the execution and ongoing support of that project. (Ex 35:34)

3) Projects ordained by G-d are typically executed in community and not by individuals, although there is always a single leader (Conclusion from reading the Tanakh)

4) The result of joyful and faithful giving and service to meet the needs of others is a) the others will give thanks to G-d, b) we prove to them that we are faithful to G-d, and c) we will be blessed. (2 Cor 9:12-14)

The Temple has entered a new era and all hands are beginning to come on deck. If you have not found a place to actively serve, I hope you will find a way to help so that you may be doubly blessed by our Master.

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.

Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,

Kurt

]]>To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,The parsha this week is VaYachel, Exodus 35:1 – 38:20, 1 Kings 7:13-26, 2 Corinthians 9:6-11Amongst the lengthy list of supplies and construction directions for building the Tabernacle and related items and garments, this is what I noticed:
1) All whose hearts and spirits were stirred by Moses and the L-rd, joyfully and willingly participated, as they were able, in this shared project that was ordained and directed by their Master. (Ex 35:20-22)
2) It is an important part of a project ordained and directed by G-d to teach others how to participate and share in the execution and ongoing support of that project. (Ex 35:34)
3) Projects ordained by G-d are typically executed in community and not by individuals, although there is always a single leader (Conclusion from reading the Tanakh)
4) The result of joyful and faithful giving and service to meet the needs of others is a) the others will give thanks to G-d, b) we prove to them that we are faithful to G-d, and c) we will be blessed. (2 Cor 9:12-14)
The Temple has entered a new era and all hands are beginning to come on deck. If you have not found a place to actively serve, I hope you will find a way to help so that you may be doubly blessed by our Master.
How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?
I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.
Your brother in Yeshua in the TEVA TEFILAH,
Kurt
To our 9:00 am Shabbat Ark of Prayer and the Mishpacha within,

Amongst the lengthy list of supplies and construction directions for building the Tabernacle and related items and garments, this is what I noticed:

1) All whose hearts and spirits were stirred by Moses and the L-rd, joyfully and willingly participated, as they were able, in this shared project that was ordained and directed by their Master. (Ex 35:20-22)

2) It is an important part of a project ordained and directed by G-d to teach others how to participate and share in the execution and ongoing support of that project. (Ex 35:34)

3) Projects ordained by G-d are typically executed in community and not by individuals, although there is always a single leader (Conclusion from reading the Tanakh)

4) The result of joyful and faithful giving and service to meet the needs of others is a) the others will give thanks to G-d, b) we prove to them that we are faithful to G-d, and c) we will be blessed. (2 Cor 9:12-14)

The Temple has entered a new era and all hands are beginning to come on deck. If you have not found a place to actively serve, I hope you will find a way to help so that you may be doubly blessed by our Master.

How will this parsha impact your prayers this week and this Shabbat?

I look forward to hearing what G-d has shared with you this week and how we should pray for TAJ.